Every month CARP Halton will feature a Mental Health segment. “Bipolar disorder can be a great teacher. It’s a challenge, but it can set you up to be able to do almost anything else in your life.” –Carrie Fisher. This segment will feature a group, to enrich your Mental Health understanding whether you have the blues or are anxious. Let’s start with mood disorders and the group Equilibrium:
Equilibrium, founded in 1991, is a peer support group for individuals and families who are affected by a mood disorder. No registration or membership is required. All those affected by a mood disorder are welcomed. Just show up!
Major Depression Defined: According to the American Psychiatric Association, major depression is defined as a disorder with signs and symptoms that interfere with a person’s ability to function in their daily life. Some of these symptoms include:
- a loss of interest in the activities of daily living
- changes in appetite that may lead to weight loss or gain
- a persistently depressed, anxious or empty mood, which may sometimes be accompanied by feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt or suicidal thoughts
- difficulty with sleep, appetite, energy and motivation
- trouble concentrating or making decisions
Bipolar Disorder Defined: Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder in which a person may experience (usually at different times) periods of depression alternating with episodes of euphoria or elation. This illness is also known as manic depressive disorder. Some of the characteristic symptoms include:
- an abnormally elevated or euphoric mood lasting for at least one week
- a decreased need for sleep often accompanied by increased over-activity
- racing thoughts and rapid speech
- inflated self-esteem, grandiose ideas which may result in poor judgment and reckless or risk taking behaviours
Attending a Meeting: People are welcomed on arrival by a core group member, who provides them with literature. The meeting lasts from an hour to an hour and a half and is usually attended by 25-35 people. Usually there is a speaker and afterwards discussion groups.
Confidentiality: The importance of confidentiality is emphasized at the beginning of every meeting. People attending an Equilibrium meeting for the first time generally sit back and listen. However, they are invited to share their thoughts if they wish.
Cost: There is no cost to attend meetings or borrow books/videos. Operating costs are covered by donations at meetings.
Monthly Meetings: 2nd Tues each month – Sept to Jun doors open at 6:45 pm – meeting 7-9 pm
Evangel Pentecostal Church, 1450 Rebecca St., Oakville. Rebecca & Third Line, across from Hopedale Mall (parking & entrance on east side of the church)