Starting in 2000 as a small support group for those coping with mental health symptoms, this group known as "Carl Brown's Mad Dog Army" met weekly at a local library. Eventually, the group sought a charter with the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), a nonprofit, peer-directed organization bringing together people with depression and bipolar disorder for support and networking. The DBSA Louisville chapter now has multiple support groups, both in-person and online. We reach hundreds of people each year. The DBSA National umbrella organization started in 1978 in a Chicago home, and now reaches 4 million people a year. Together we provide current, understandable information about depression and bipolar disorder and empowering tools focused on an integrated approach to wellness!

Those of us coping with mood disorders have to be extremely careful who we allow to know that we have a mood disorder. Not everyone is capable of handling the information, and unfortunately in this day and age many will misuse the privilege of knowing. Many of us at DBSA Louisville have come to really respect and appreciate the family and friends who do everything they can to help. We've noticed that consumers with engaged families and friends were more likely to be compliant with treatment and found the path to wellness easier to navigate. We are extremely grateful for them. We know that it sometimes takes courage to stand by our side and they need support too. We are very excited that we have a support group for our Family and Friends every Tuesday night at our Tuesday night meeting at St. Paul's United Methodist Church.