A bridge to hope

Bipolar disorder is a diagnosed mood disorder where people can go from extreme manic periods of high energy to deep low periods of depression within a handful of months. That being said, bipolar disorder can sometimes be difficult to manage for the patient, let alone the patient’s loved ones. In San Francisco and the bay area, there are a number of places where bipolar patients and relatives can get support, be it talk therapy, support groups, education, or all of the above.

Saint Francis Hospital

Saint Francis Hospital (1199 Bush St/ 415-353-6464) is host to not just one, but several support groups for bipolar disorder. Regular support groups meet every Monday @ 6:45pm and every Saturday @ 1:30pm. 18-30 year olds as well as friends and family meet the first and third Monday of each month at 6:45pm in different rooms. The guidelines of the group meetings illustrate that it is safe and non-confrontational.

Cognitive Therapy

The San Francisco Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy (5435 College Ave, Oakland, CA‎ - (510) 652-4455‎) will treat bipolar disorder using their namesake technique. Cognitive behavioral therapy techniques include confronting the patient’s self-belief and targeting stressors that might contribute to mania or depression.

National Alliance on Mental Illness

NAMI provides an online directory for support groups beyond the immediate bay area. Their website lists Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance chapters in Pleasanton and Castro Valley, while a family support group can be located in Livermore.

RELATED ARTICLES: