The Sunshine Support Group is an activity based support group for people with present or past mental health issues and their family members.

People can self refer to the group or be referred by their doctor or the Mental Health Team.

The group has a positive focus and aims to assist members on their journey of recovery. This can be achieved through participation and sharing in group activities.

Membership of the group is free and voluntary with people belonging to the group for as long as they choose.

The Cromwell Support Group is an activity based support group for people with present or past mental health issues and their family members.

People can self refer to the group or be referred by their doctor or the Mental Health Team.

The group has a positive focus and aims to assist members on their journey of recovery. This can be achieved through participation and sharing in group activities.

Membership of the group is free and voluntary with people belonging to the group for as long as they choose.

Regular Meetings

The Cromwell Group meets every second Tuesday between 11.00 and 2.00 at the Catholic Church Hall, Sligo Street, Cromwell.

Artsenta is a Dunedin based art workshop for mental health consumers with regular outreach programmes to Central Otago.

Artsenta staff visit the Cromwell Support Group once a month and provide tuition, materials, inspiration and motivation for creative activities.

Members are encouraged to make their own travel arrangements but if this is a problem speak to a staff member.

Morning tea is provided free but members are encouraged to bring their own lunch or money to buy at a local cafe.

Support Group

The Depression Support Group is a support group based in Alexandra for people with present or past depression and their family members. (Family members – could be spouses, partners, work mates, friends, etc.)

You do not need a referral to this group and you do not need to be under the Mental Health Team either. Just come along to our meetings.

The group has a positive focus and aims to assist members on their journey of recovery or to stay well. Peer support has a major part to play in this as well as a positive and active approach .

Membership is free and voluntary with members belonging for as long as they choose.

Members Benefits

• A chance to belong to an ongoing support group (peer support)
• Learn to identify your triggers and strategies to deal with these
• Opportunities to hear educational speakers and take part in workshops
• Try out different forms of relaxation and physical activities
• Investigate alternative ways of working through depression
• Learn ways to support a depressed family member
• Support to develop personal goals and ways of working towards achieving them