What's the purpose? To help people with uni-polar (depression) or bi-polar (depression & mania) disorders.
What's the goal? To provide an understanding and compassionate environment with the hope that each person leaves the group feeling better than when they arrived.
Is the group run by a Doctor or other Health Care Professional? No. The group is run by a meeting coordinator, who is also a peer. Every group attendee has had, or currently has, a depressive disorder.
How does it work? Each person has the opportunity to talk, if they wish to, for approximately 10 minutes. During that time each person receives the full attention of the group.
Do I have to talk? No. You may simply listen. Whatever helps.
Can I remain anonymous? Absolutely. It helps the group to have a first name for everyone, but you can remain nameless if you prefer or use a fictitious name.
Where do you meet? May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society, 3800 East Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13241. In the “Teen Room”.
Do you have a map to the group? Yes. Click Here
How often do you meet? Every Thursday from 4:30 pm to approximately 6:00 pm
Can family or friends come too? No. The meeting is strictly for people with depressive disorders. You must be well enough to attend by yourself. If you must come with someone due to transportation or other issues, they are welcome to wait in the lobby area.
Can doctors, reporters, students doing research, or other people without a depressive disorder come to the group? No. We do not knowingly allow anyone to observe, do research, take notes, use recording devices, or attend for any reason other than group support for a depressive disorder.
Is there any cost? Absolutely not. No one will ever ask you for money. There is a small voluntary contribution that is given to May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society for the generous use of their facility. The support group itself NEVER receives or accepts money from any source.
What happens after 6? The meeting ends but we may continue to use the room if it is available. This is a good time to talk longer with the group, to meet one-on-one with someone, or to simply socialize.
I need to talk to someone right now. I can't wait until Thursday. We meet physically once a week. We don’t have a telephone contact. If you’re feeling suicidal, or want to talk to someone, please click here
May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society
3800 East Genesee St. Syracuse, NY
