National Alliance on Mental Illness
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is made up of more than 600 local affiliates and 49 state organizations, all working to provide advocacy, education, and support to individuals who live with mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, as well as their loved ones.
NAMI affiliates offer peer-led classes, presentations, advocacy programs, and more, headed by trained volunteers who provide free education, skills training, and support — delivered from the perspective of those who know firsthand what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder. Some of these classes include:
- NAMI Peer-to-Peer This class for adults with mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder is aimed at encouraging growth, healing, and recovery.
- NAMI Hearts+Minds There’s a close link between mental health and physical fitness — and this wellness program aims to help people optimize both.
- NAMI FaithNet This network of NAMI members, friends, clergy, and congregations of all faiths and traditions promotes caring, welcoming congregations, and it emphasizes the role spirituality can play in the recovery of individuals of faith who live with mental health conditions.
You can connect with NAMI on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Threads, and X.
Mental Health America
Mental Health America (MHA) maintains a network of more than 130 affiliate programs across the United States, including groups that provide local mental health support. Along with local affiliates, the organization offers resources about how to find in-person, virtual, and family peer support, and provides information about how to find help in a crisis.
MHA also offers information and resources about how Black Americans with bipolar disorder can find peer support as well as the care they need. You can connect with MHA on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.
International Bipolar Foundation
Founded in 2007 by parents of children with bipolar disorder, the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF) works to empower people living with bipolar disorder through education, advocacy, and support.
While the IBPF doesn’t directly offer peer support for people living with bipolar disorder, it provides information about and links to organizations that host peer-led groups and features inspiring recovery stories that inspire hope. You can sign up for the group’s My Support newsletter, which highlights articles from community members, Q&As with experts, research updates, and more, or connect with the group on Facebook and Instagram.
