Bipolar
Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
When you become depressed, you may feel sad or hopeless and lose interest or pleasure in most activities. When your mood shifts to mania or hypomania (less extreme than mania), you may feel euphoric, full of energy or unusually irritable. These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly.
Episodes of mood swings may occur rarely or multiple times a year. While most people will experience some emotional symptoms between episodes, some may not experience any.
Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, you can manage your mood swings and other symptoms by following a treatment plan. In most cases, bipolar disorder is treated with medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy).
Source: Mayo Clinic
Types of Bipolar
Bipolar (Manic Depression)
Bipolar in Children & Teens
Symptoms
- Depressive Symptoms: Feelings of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, and low self-esteem. Restlessness, irritability. An inability to feel anything at all. Loss of physical energy. Increase or decrease in weight, appetite, and sleep. Thinking or memory impairment. Thoughts of death, suicide or hurting oneself.
- Symptoms of Mania: Decrease needs for sleep. Increase in spending habits and sexual drive. Excessive energy/agitation. Feelings of grandiosity/inflated self-esteem. Poor judgment. Racing thoughts, flight of ideas. Excessive interest of activities. Rapid, unpredictable emotional changes. Extremely talkative/pressured speech. Extreme irritability. Overreaction to stimuli. Loss of appetite and weight loss.
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- Bipolar Disorder affects approximately 2-2.2% in Canada.
- Although a single cause has not been identified, it is known that many factors, including biochemical, genetic and environment play a part in this illness.
- There is growing evidence that heredity is involved, especially in the more recurrent forms of the disorder.
Treatment
Bipolar Disorder is usually treated by a variety of medications, together with supportive psychotherapy. The most common medications are mood stabilizers such as Lithium Carbonate, Tegretol, and Valproic Acid. Medications prescribed for this disorder may also include anti-depressants, anti-psychotics, and anti-anxiety agents.Since bipolar disorder is a recurrent illness, often with widely separated episodes over many years, you may have to take medications for long periods of time.
Symptoms
- An expansive or irritable mood
- Depression
- Rapidly changing moods lasting a few hours to a few days
- Explosive, lengthy, and often destructive rages
- Separation anxiety
- Defiance of authority
- Hyperactivity, agitation, distractibility
- Sleeping little or, alternatively, sleeping too much
- Bed-wetting and night terrors
- Strong and frequent cravings, often for carbohydrates and sweets
- Excessive involvement in multiple projects and activities
- Impaired judgment, impulsivity, racing thoughts, pressure to keep talking
- Dare-devil behaviors
- Inappropriate or precocious sexual behavior
- Delusions and hallucinations
- Grandiose belief in own abilities that defy the laws of logic (Ability to fly, for example)
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- The illness tends to be highly genetic, but there are clearly environmental factors that influence whether the illness will occur in a particular child. Bipolar disorder can skip generations and take different forms in different individuals.
- For the general population, a conservative estimate of an individual's risk of having full-blown bipolar disorder is 1 percent. Disorders in the bipolar spectrum may affect 4 - 6 %.
- When one parent has bipolar disorder, the risk to each child is 15 to 30%. When both parents have bipolar disorder, the risk increases to 50 to 75%. The risk in siblings and fraternal twins is 15 to 25%.
- The risk in identical twins is approximately 70%.
Treatment
If possible, have a board-certified child psychiatrist diagnose and treat your child. Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, in most cases treatment can stabilize mood and allow for management and control of symptoms. A good treatment plan includes medication, close monitoring of symptoms, education about the illness, counseling, or psychotherapy for the individual and family, stress reduction, good nutrition, regular sleep and exercise, and participation in a network of support. The response to medications and treatment varies. The good news is that with appropriate treatment and support at home and at school, many children with bipolar disorder achieve a marked reduction in the severity, frequency, and duration of episodes of illness.
Men’s Virtual Peer Support Group
Women’s Peer Support
Virtual Friends and Family Support Group
Winnipeg – Senior’s Tea & Tales
Mixed Coffee and Chat
Mixed In-Person Bipolar Peer Support Group
Mixed Depression & Anxiety
Wellness Peer Support Group (Westman)
Soul Sisters
Brandon Men’s Activity Club
Selkirk – Tea & Tales
Men’s In-Person Peer Support Group
Game Night
Lac du Bonnet – Tea & Tales
Brandon Rotary Villas – Tea & Tales
Baby Talk (Brandon)
Minnedosa- Tea & Tales
Boissevain – Tea & Tales
Coffee Talk – Wellness Support Group
Brandon – Tea & Tales
Soul Sisters After Hours
Brandon Game Night
Brandon Family and Friends Support Group
Grief Support Group
Family & Friends Peer Support (Winnipeg)
Join us every Wednesday from 6:30 – 7:30 pm for a confidential and safe place to talk. Click the link below to join, no registration needed.
This is an open group for anyone who identifies as a man,18+ living in Manitoba.
These in-person and virtual groups are for anyone who identifies as a woman. We welcome open, honest, and heartfelt connections and conversations and we aim to provide coping techniques and support for women struggling with their mental health.
Our in-person group meets every Thursday from 6:45-7:45 pm at 4 Fort St in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Our virtual group meets every Tuesday from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. Click the link below to join, no registration needed. (This group will resume meeting on Tuesday, January 7, 2025)
IN PERSON
Thursdays
6:45 pm to 7:45 pm
Facilitator: Karly M. and Undela U.
This group offers support to friends and family to help them deal with mood disorders diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes them to experience support and connection.
This group meets virtually every Tuesday from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Please click the link below to join, no registration is required.
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about getting together for an afternoon tea or coffee and a light snack to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
This group has been meeting regularly for the past two years and is well-established. Members often bring home-baked goods to share, along with various items for our ‘Show & Tell’ segment. After initial introductions/check-in and a short break, the group does a five-minute guided meditation together. The ‘word of the week’, chosen the week before, is usually discussed and a new word is chosen. Lively discussions around group-guided topics often occur. Meetings usually wrap up with a positive affirmation or a quote containing words of wisdom. New members are always welcomed warmly!
Location: This group meets every Tuesday from 1:30 – 3:30 pm at our office at 100-4 Fort Street, Winnipeg.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Facilitator: Pam H. & Barb F.
Our in-person Mixed Coffee and Chat Group invites the community to come together to talk about anything and everything related to mental health. From discussing life’s challenges to simply shooting the breeze, it is a safe space to find support and resources to help make daily life just that much easier.
This group meets every Tuesday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg.
*PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO AN EXTREME COLD WEATHER ALERT, THIS GROUP WILL NOT BE MEETING ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2025. THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE AND UNDERSTANDING.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Facilitator: Matt
This in-person group is open to anyone affected by bipolar disorder, whether directly or indirectly. You don’t need a diagnosis to join, and family, friends, or anyone supporting someone with bipolar disorder are also welcome. It’s a space for support, conversation, and connection.
This group meets at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Marie S. & Ryan S.
This in-person group is for anyone dealing with depression or anxiety, whether you’ve been diagnosed or not. Join us for connection, conversation, and support, along with resources to help you on your path to healing.
This group meets at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street on Thursday evenings from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
IN PERSON
Thursday
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Jezz
This is an online mixed group that focuses on wellness topics, addressing all mood disorders, diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes everyone to experience an evening of support and connection.
Let’s Talk Wellness 💬✨
Take a step toward better mental health and join our Wellness Peer Support Group! Share your story, gain support, and build connections in a judgment-free space.
🗓 Mondays
🕕 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
📍 Virtual We’re here for you—call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca to register. Let’s thrive together!
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays. This group meets every Monday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
ONLINE
Every Monday
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Facilitator: Bethany
A community of women who care about each other and who welcome open, honest, heartfelt connections and conversations. Come join a sacred space of nonjudgmental & confidential sharing.
📅 When: Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Now HYBRID – join us in person at our Brandon office, located at 1003 13th Street, or virtually!
Connect, share, and support one another in a safe and welcoming space. Whether you prefer the comfort of home or joining us in person, we’re here for you!
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays.
IN PERSON
Tuesday (In-Person/Virtual)
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Facilitator: Bethany
Looking for a space to connect, share, and engage with other men in the community? Join our Men’s Activity Club for weekly sessions focused on support, camaraderie, and wellness. This group is aimed primarily at men 40+ but those younger are welcome as well. The group fosters socialization and connection among men in a workshop setting.
This group meets weekly on Wednesdays from 12:30 – 2:00 pm in person at the BNRC Creation Nation Maker Space in Brandon, Manitoba. This group does not meet on statutory holidays. (No charge for this group.)
To receive the link to this group or for further information, please contact the Brandon office by emailing or calling/texting:
adassist@moodmb.ca
(204) 721-2174
IN PERSON
Wednesday
12:30 to 2:00 pm
Facilitator: In person at the BNRC Creation Nation Maker Space in Brandon, Manitoba
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about coming together for an afternoon tea or coffee to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
Location: The Gordon Howard Centre, 384 Eveline St., Selkirk, MB. This group meets every Thursday from 1:00 – 2:30 pm. Light refreshments and snacks are provided.
No registration required.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Facilitator: Susan
Join us every week for a confidential and safe place to talk. This is an open group for anyone who identifies as a man,18+ living in Manitoba.
This group meets every Monday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg.
This group is co-facilitated with Peer Connections Manitoba.
IN PERSON
Monday
5:30 - 6:30 pm at 4 Fort Street
Facilitator: Matthew C., Shawn D., and Daniel
Dive into the magic of Friday nights at MDAM – it’s Game Night!
Every Friday night, MDAM opens its doors at 6:00 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg for a good old-fashioned games night.
Game play kicks off at 6:00 pm, carrying the excitement through until 10:00 pm. Bring along a buddy or make some new friends as we gather to play an array of games – dice, cards, and board games galore!
Learn more about Game Night and view photos from our First Annual Farkle Tournament held in December 2024.
IN PERSON
Friday Nights
Doors open 6:00 pm, Game play 6:00 - 10:00 pm
Facilitator: Pam, Jezz, Ryan and Barb
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about coming together for an afternoon tea or coffee to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
This is a newer group in the Lac du Bonnet area that started on March 4, 2024 in partnership with Two Rivers Seniors Resource Council and the RM of Lac du Bonnet. The group meets the second Monday of each month at the Lutheran Church of the Cross, 253 McArthur Avenue, Lac du Bonnet. Light snacks, coffee and tea are served.
Location: The Lutheran Church of the Cross, 253 McArthur Avenue, Lac du Bonnet.
No registration required.
IN PERSON
Second Monday of the Month
1:30 - 3:00 pm
Facilitator: Bianca Tetrault
Join us for Tea and Tales at Rotary Villas! This weekly support group offers a warm, welcoming space for seniors to connect, share stories, and support one another.
The group meets every Friday from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm at Rotary Villas, 1340 10 St., Brandon, MB.
To join or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Friday
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
💬 Join us for a safe space to connect with other parents and talk about the challenges and joys of postpartum life. We’re here to support your mental wellness on this journey.
📍 Location: MDAM Prairie Mountain Office
📅 Date: Every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month
🕥 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Facilitator: Lora Hay, Alycia Canada, and Brenda Lacerte
For more info or to register, call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca. 💕
IN PERSON
1st and 3rd Monday of the month
10:30-11:30 am
Facilitator: Lora Hay, Alycia Canada, and Brenda Lacerte
Join us for Tea and Tales in Minnedosa! This weekly support group is a safe space for seniors to share stories, connect, and find support for the unique challenges they face. Come for the tea, stay for the tales, and leave with a sense of community.
Calling All Seniors for Tea & Tales at the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre!
Location: 31 Main St S, Minnedosa, MB
Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Dates: Wednesdays
MDAM Prairie Mountain has partnered with the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre to offer a safe and confidential space for folks to come together! Looking to connect with others in your community? Then come join us for a morning of refreshments to connect, exchange stories and discuss a wide range of mental health topics.
For more information, please call Lora: (431) 866-4234 or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Wednesdays
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
We’re excited to continue our Tea and Tales Support Group in Boissevain! Join us for a morning of connection, conversation, and support as we share stories and navigate life’s challenges together.
📅 When: Every Second Tuesday of the month
📍 Where: Cherry Creek Place
⏰ Time: 10:00AM to 11:00AM
This group focuses on seniors and their unique struggles, but all are welcome! Let’s come together, one story at a time.
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every Second Tuesday of the month
10:00 - 11:00 am
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Take a moment for yourself and join us for Coffee Talk in our new Brandon office! This new group is all about fostering wellness, sharing experiences, and simply enjoying great company.
📅 When: Every Thursday, starting January 16, 2025
📍 Where: Brandon Office Support Space, 1003 13th Street, Unit B Brandon, MB R7A 4E9
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Sit, sip, and connect in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to see you there!
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Join us for Tea and Tales at the MDAM Prairie Mountain Office! This weekly support group offers a warm, welcoming space for seniors to connect, share stories, and support one another.
The group meets every Thursday from 2:00 – 3:00 pm at the MDAM Prairie Mountain office in Brandon, MB.
To join or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
🌙 Soul Sisters: After Hours – An Evening of Connection & Support 🌙
Building on the heart of Soul Sisters, Soul Sisters: After Hours offers the same supportive space for women to connect, share, and uplift one another—now in the evening. ✨ Whether you’re looking for encouragement, meaningful conversations, or a sense of sisterhood, this group is here for you.
📍 Location: MDAM Prairie Mountain Office
📅 Every Second Wednesday
🕕 Time: 6:30-8:00 PM
Come as you are—no registration needed! For more info, call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays.
IN PERSON
Every Second Wednesday
6:30-8:00PM
Facilitator: Bethany
🎲 Game Night – Fun & Connection! 🎉
Looking for a laid-back evening of fun? Game Night is the perfect chance to relax, enjoy some friendly competition, and connect with others in a supportive environment. Whether you love board games, card games, or just want to hang out, come join the fun! 🃏🎲
📍 Location: MDAM Prairie Mountain Office
📅 Next Date: Every 4th Tuesday of the month
🕕 Time: Starting at 6 PM
Bring a friend or come solo—all are welcome! For more info, call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every 4th Tuesday of the month
6 PM
Facilitator: Bethany
💙 Family and Friends Support Group in Brandon 💙
Our Family and Friends Support Group is a safe space for those who love and support someone with a mood disorder or mental health challenges. Whether you’re looking for guidance, understanding, or just a chance to talk, we’re here for you. 💬
📍 Location: MDAM Prairie Mountain Office
📅 Date: Every 1st Tuesday of the month
🕕 Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Everyone is welcome—no registration needed! For more info, call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every 1st Tuesday of the month
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora
This group is dedicated to individuals processing any type of grief at any point in their lives. We understand it can be a very complicated process that people shouldn’t have to experience alone.
This group is co-facilitated with Peer Connections and is hosted at 4 Fort Street in Winnipeg.
The group meets every Tuesday from 6:00 – 7:30 pm and is free to join. You do not need to pre-register, simply show up a few minutes before the meeting and grab a coffee and find a seat.
#GriefSupport #PeerSupport #MDAM #Winnipeg #PeerConnectionsMB
IN PERSON
Every Tuesday
6:00 - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Peer Connections / MDAM
Seeking a confidential and caring space to connect with other family members/friends who understand your experiences? Join our group every Thursday from 6:00 – 7:00 pm for a supportive and inclusive gathering. This group alternates between in-person and virtual sessions and is co-facilitated with Peer Connections Manitoba.
The April 17 meeting will be held virtually. Please click the link below to join the meeting on Zoom (Meeting ID: 896 7025 4257 / Passcode: 370727)
If you have any questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
IN PERSON
April 24, 2025
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Facilitator: MDAM / Peer Connections Manitoba