Wellness Groups

Wellness Groups Offered

  • Check-In Wellness Group

    The Check-In Wellness Group is a mental health recovery group focused on goal-setting and self-care. Using the Wellness Triangle, members will track progress in the mind, body, finances, and spirit. Each week, participants will review their goals and set new ones, fostering growth and helping them thrive, not just survive.

  • Depression & Anxiety Wellness Group

    The Depression and Anxiety Wellness Groups are peer-led groups for individuals experiencing depression (Clinical Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, or Dysthymia) and/or anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and/or specific phobias). These groups explore new ways of overcoming negative thoughts and feelings, and provide a safe haven for mental stability.

  • Disability & Chronic Illness Haven Wellness Group

    The Disability & Chronic Illness Haven Wellness Group is an inclusive, peer-led group that brings individuals with disabilities (physical, sensory, intellectual/learning, developmental and/or neurological/neurodevelopmental) and chronic illnesses together in a safe environment to share life experiences and receive support.

  • Journaling for Joy Wellness Group

    Journaling for Joy is a supportive social group where members explore their thoughts, creativity, and emotions through guided journal prompts. It’s a space for reflection, growth, and connection, where participants can share their responses and inspire each other on their personal journeys of self-discovery and joy.

  • LGBTQ+ Wellness Group

    The LGBTQ+ Wellness Group is a peer-led, affirming group for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. This group offers a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to receive support and connection.

  • Men's Wellness Group

    The Men’s Wellness Group is a peer-led group for men. This group creates a supportive environment for men to connect over shared experiences and receive support.

  • Survivors of Suicide Loss for Grief & Healing Group

    The SOSL Groups are peer-led groups for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide. These groups provide insight and comfort to individuals dealing with the trauma and tragedy of a loss to suicide.

  • Voices, Beliefs, and Meaning Wellness Group

    The Voices, Beliefs, and Meaning Group is a peer-led group for people who hear voices, see visions, or have other unusual perceptual experiences, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to share stories, coping strategies, and explore the meaning of these experiences, reducing isolation, and helping members regain control and integrate these experiences into their lives, moving beyond traditional psychiatric labels to find personal meaning and recovery. 

Wellness Group Schedule

Virtual Groups Offered

    • Wednesdays: Weekly from 2pm to 3pm

    • Mondays: Weekly from 1pm to 2pm

    • Wednesdays: Weekly from 6pm to 7pm

    • Tuesdays: Weekly from 3pm to 4pm

    • First Thursdays: Monthly from 5pm to 6:30pm

    • Mondays: Weekly from 5pm to 6pm

    • Tuesdays: Weekly from 6 PM - 7 PM

    • First, Third and Fourth Thursdays: Thrice-monthly from 7pm to 8pm

    • Tuesdays: Every other Tuesday at 4 pm

In-Person Groups Offered

    • Wednesdays: Weekly from 7pm to 8:30pm in Pike Creek

    • Second Thursdays: Monthly from 7pm to 8pm in Wilmington

  • Mondays

    Virtual Depression & Anxiety Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 1pm-2pm
    • Facilitator: Larry
    • Meeting ID: 847 6605 5993
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84766055993


    Virtual LGBTQ+ Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 5pm-6pm
    • Facilitator: Golda
    • Meeting ID:  827 5662 6629
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82756626629

  • Tuesdays

    Virtual Disability & Chronic Illness Haven Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 3pm-4pm
    • Facilitators: Golda
    • Meeting ID: 899 5873 1803
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89958731803


    Virtual Men's Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 6pm-7pm
    • Facilitators: Larry
    • Meeting ID: 824 7013 9731
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82470139731

    (NEW!) Voices, Beliefs, and Meaning Wellness Group

    *Begins February 10th!

    • Frequency: Every Other Tuesday
    • Time: 4 pm
    • Facilitators: Tammy
    • Meeting ID: 861 8423 8678
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86184238678?pwd=BrQI8fbBRU1YbawqEhEX5DHEiY1wYy.1

  • Wednesdays

    Virtual Check-In Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 2pm-3pm
    • Facilitators: Dawna
    • Meeting ID: 847 0339 7315
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84703397315

    Virtual Depression & Anxiety Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 6pm-7pm
    • Facilitator: Larry
    • Meeting ID: 828 3676 4087
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82836764087


    Pike Creek’s Depression & Anxiety Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Weekly
    • Time: 7pm-8:30pm
    • Facilitators: Sean & Mallorie
    • Location: Pike Creek, DE

  • Thursdays

    Virtual Journaling for Joy Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Monthly (first Thursdays)
    • Time: 5pm-6:30pm
    • Facilitators: Fee
    • Meeting ID: 876 0452 2914
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87604522914

    Virtual Survivors of Suicide Loss for Grief and Healing Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Thrice-monthly (first, third and fourth Thursdays)
    • Time: 7pm-8pm
    • Facilitators: Brittany & Diane & Susan
    • Meeting ID: 810 8808 0588
    • Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81088080588


    Newark’s Survivors of Suicide Loss for Grief and Healing Wellness Group

    • Frequency: Monthly (second Thursdays)
    • Time: 7pm-8pm
    • Facilitator: Diane
    • Location: Newark, DE

Registration is Easy!

Simply complete this form to register for a wellness group! Please give a 48-hour notice to register before attending. If you have questions, please check out our FAQ below or email Matt Johnston at MJohnston@MHAINDE.org.

FAQ

  • The purpose of the Mental Health Association in Delaware’s wellness groups is to facilitate recovery from mental illnesses by providing an opportunity for members to share their experiences in a safe, supportive and gently challenging environment.

  • No! Groups are closed to ensure safety and privacy, meaning registration is absolutely required before joining a wellness group. To register, please email Matt Johnston at mjohnston@mhainde.org

  • To register, please email Matt Johnston at mjohnston@mhainde.org

  • To ensure the safety of the members of our wellness groups, all groups are closed. Groups are only open to people who are registered and identify with the diagnosis (i.e. depression, anxiety) and/or the specific identity (e.g. LGBTQ). If you are a student looking to observe groups, we suggest looking for local 12-step groups including AA and NA.

  • No! All wellness groups are closed to ensure privacy and safety. If you are a student looking to observe groups, we suggest looking for local 12-step groups including AA and NA.

  • All MHA’s wellness groups are free.

  • There are usually between 5 and 12 people attending each group.

  • The wellness groups run on Eastern Time Zone.

  • There will be no wellness groups held on the following dates: January 1 & 2, January 19, February 16, April 3, May 25, June 19, July 3, September 7, November 11, November 26 & 27, December 24 & 25, 2026

  • No! For in-person groups, we welcome people from nearby states. For virtual groups, we welcome people from across the country, and even internationally!

  • Our groups are peer-led, meaning that an individual who has been through the experience that the group is focused on (for example, an individual who has battled depression or lost a loved one to suicide) is trained to facilitate the group.

  • Wellness groups are not the same as group therapy and do not replace mental health treatment. The groups are most helpful and effective when used in addition to regular therapy and/or medication.

  • You do not need a diagnosis to join the wellness groups. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness and could benefit from a wellness group, you are able to join with the understanding that the wellness groups cannot replace professional treatment nor provide diagnosing. If you are concerned about your mental health, we provide free mental health screenings that share results, recommendations and resources. To learn more, go here: https://screening.hfihub.com/mhainde

  • You can find the group norms for wellness group members by clicking here.

  • The strength of the group comes from each one of us giving and receiving support. However, feel free to remain silent or say, “I pass” if you don’t feel ready to speak out in the group right away. We hope you will share as soon as you feel able.

  • Our guidelines state that what is said in the group, stays in the group, and that each person’s right to anonymity and privacy is respected.

  • Groups meet virtually via Zoom and in person at several locations throughout the state in various churches and conference rooms. Please email Matt Johnston at mjohnston@mhainde.org to register and find the exact location for the group you would like to attend.

  • Yes, our groups are for adults. If you are looking for a group for children or teens, you can contact MHA to try to help you find one in your area.

“In 2013, I joined the Mental Health Association in Delaware’s Wednesday Pike Creek Depression and Bipolar Support Group.  At the time, I felt like not only was I struggling to fire on all cylinders, I wasn’t firing on any cylinders.  My mind raced night and day with anxieties.  A close friend encouraged me to join a support group; he described the power of a group lies in allowing you to speak out loud your worst fears and get them out of your head.  Attending the first night took courage.  Once I met the other members, I realized the benefits of MHA’s support groups far surpass just getting thoughts out of your head.  I found a place where I heard others share my fears and worries.  I found a safe space where I can share thoughts difficult to voice with family and friends.” - Alison Gilefski

“In 1987, I was diagnosed with major depression. At that time, I was hospitalized as a nonfunctional person and was severely disabled. Now, fifteen years later, through diligent use of medication, therapy and support systems, I can share my story with you. In the fall of 2000, I moved to Delaware knowing no one in the immediate area. As you can imagine, even the most well adjusted individual would find the transition hard. I found it especially difficult. When I discovered a listing for depression support groups in the newspaper I felt I had found a lifeline. Through the MHA sponsored support groups, I have found friends, a support system, and doctors. Participating in groups and sharing with members experiencing the same feelings as me helped immensely, provided an emotional anchor, and helped me learn new coping skills.

I am now pursuing a life long goal of a Masters degree and I am enrolled as a full time student. As you may guess, this is an ambitious endeavor in light of my disability. Without the ongoing support group sponsored free of charge by the Mental Health Association, my support system would be severely crippled. My road to recovery continues and now I am co-facilitating one of the support groups. I am now looking towards the future as a more productive member of society, getting off disability, earning an income that will improve my quality of life, and serving as an advocate for mental health issues such as parity.

Your continued support of the Mental Health Association will be appreciated by all of us who benefit from these support groups. Treatment works!” - Anonymous

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