Peer Support Groups

Schizophrenia Alliance (SA)

Schizophrenia Alliance is a self-help group for people living with schizophrenia or a schizophrenia-related illness. SA was founded in the Detroit area in 1985 and has since grown to have thousands of people participate in weekly meetings in the United States and across the globe.

Our SA groups follow a set of guiding principles found in the “Blue Book,” an essential tool to aiding group discussion. If you are interested in ordering this resource please contact us.

Types of Groups

Schizophrenia Alliance (SA)

Uses the six steps of recovery—including spirituality—as each person relates to a higher power. Held weekly and led by a peer who has schizophrenia or a related disorder.

SA Faith-Inclusive

Uses the six steps of recovery, with a more detailed discussion of spirituality and religion as it relates to recovery and the six steps. Held monthly and led by a peer who has schizophrenia or a related disorder.

Schizophrenia Spectrum Sharing and Support (SA4S)

Does not use the six steps and does not discuss spirituality. Held weekly and led by a peer who has schizophrenia or a related disorder.

Statement of Purpose

Schizophrenia Alliance is organized and managed by people experiencing schizophrenia or a schizophrenia-related illness. It is administered in partnership with S&PAA.

The SA statement of purpose is as follows:

To help restore dignity and a sense of purpose for people working toward recovery from schizophrenia or a schizophrenia-related illness

To offer fellowship, positive support, and companionship in order to achieve good mental health

To improve our own attitudes about our lives and illnesses

To provide members with the latest information regarding schizophrenia

To encourage members to take positive steps towards recovery

Schizophrenia Alliance Guiding Principles

The only requirement for SA membership is the desire to recover from a schizophrenia-related illness.

There are no dues for SA membership, although donations are accepted to cover SA group expenses and special events.

Everything said at SA meetings is confidential.

SA members should remain anonymous, except those who wish to work on special issues.

SA members and leaders should place principles before personalities in all matters relating to our program.

Each group may establish its own meeting format, subject to approval by central SA leadership.

Decisions affecting SA as a whole are derived from the group consciousness of its own members.

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Families for Care (FFC)

What is Families for Care?

Families for Care is a support group for families of diagnosed individuals with schizophrenia or a schizophrenia-related illness. Schizophrenia-related illnesses include schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, and major depression with psychosis spectrum disorders.

Since its founding in 2008, Families for Care has reached thousands of caregivers seeking guidance and acceptance of individuals who experience psychosis spectrum disorders. We offer a non-judgmental community focused on education and acceptance. Here, you’ll find hope, which is vital for families living through the realities of psychosis spectrum disorders.

We welcome you to FFC. Please be at ease and feel comforted by this experience of support and community for your family. All meetings are confidential. They are meant to help sustain you and give you a caring community of supporters. Your experiences will enrich other families and help you grow in understanding of how to assist your own family and how to move through this journey with acceptance and love.

You are not alone anymore. You are welcome here. You are accepted here. We will be here each week when you join us.