• CABF Online (Internet) Support Groups - Member Access Only

  Originally called "BPParents," CABF offers over 20 online email groups for adult members of CABF who are raising a child or adolescent diagnosed with, or at risk for, bipolar disorder.
  
  After you join an Online Support Group, read CABF's Tips on Getting Started.
  For additional information on navigating this website, click here. 

• Directory of Local Support Groups - Public Access

  Groups (listed by state, province, or geographic area) that meet in person to provide support to adults raising a child or adolescent diagnosed with, or at risk for, bipolar disorder. Some groups welcome families, and a few are for teens or children only.
  

• Why should I join a support group?

  Support groups offer a vital link to others in similar situations. When no one else seems to understand, when blame seems to be coming from all sides, and when you need information and ideas from other parents, a support group can feel like a safe harbor in the midst of a storm. In-person support groups provide face-to-face personal contact and lead to local resources. CABF's online support groups provide 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week access to information and support from caring individuals for those who cannot attend in-person groups or who prefer the ease and greater privacy of the internet. Both types of support groups foster human connection and opportunities to help others. Join a support group today!
  
  

• How can I start a local support group?

  Although CABF does not yet have chapters or affiliates, parents may use this website to facilitate the organizing and publicizing of groups in their local community. Successful groups may begin with two parents meeting at a restaurant once a month. Some have an agenda with speakers, or move toward that format as they grow.

  In thinking about starting a group, you may wish to consider the following:
  
  

  • Will the group be sponsored by an agency or organization or will it be strictly parent-run?
  • Will the leader be one parent, a core group of parents, a parent/professional partnership, or a steering committee including both parents and professionals?
  • Where will the group meet? Meeting rooms are often donated by schools, banks, libraries, hospitals, and community organizations.
  • How will you publicize the group? Mental health centers, outpatient clinics, and school special education personnel may refer parents. Be sure to list your group in the CABF Directory of Support Groups.
  • What funds will be needed? Operating costs may include postage for meeting notices, room rental fees or speaker fees, food and beverages.

  CABF is pleased to make this Directory available to help parents find others in their community.

CABF needs your support. If resources on this Web site helped you or your family, please make a donation to help cover the expenses of this site. Click on the CABF logo at left or the donations button at the top of any page to make a donation. Thank you!