Canterbury & West Coast help services

GROW

GROW is a mutual help mental health movement that provides support to people with mental health problems. Friendship is the special key to mental health. Groups meet weekly and are open to all. Provides friendly help for people suffering from anxiety, distress, depression or any sort of emotional problems. National Office: PO Box 41 051, St Lukes, Auckland. Phone (09) 846 6869.

Depression Support Network

The Depression Support Network is a community organisation developed, led and managed by people whose lives have been affected by depression. 2nd Floor - Securities House, 221 Gloucester Street, P O Box 13167, Christchruch. Phone (03) 366 8083, Fax (03) 365 5345. Email

Balance: New Zealand Bipolar & Depression Network

The mission of Balance NZ is to provide support, education, advocacy and training to people (tangata whai ora) affected by bipolar disorder or depression in New Zealand.

Big Blackdog Message Board and Chat Room

Is a NZ-run mental illness consumer peer support group available to all, online 24/7. The Big Black Dog Message Board was started in August 2008 and currently has around 160 members (membership & registration is free but essential to Post or visit the Chat Room). The message board is moderated and has become a safe haven for many who previously felt they had no voice.