Find Community. Find Wellness. Find Hope.
Annual Report 2022
A Word From Leadership
Note from the Board Chair
In 2022, though COVID-19 was still very much a part of our lives, businesses and public events began opening their doors again. In fact, for the first time since 2019, the Gerald L. Klerman Award and Scientific Advisory Board Reception took place in-person, in New Orleans.
Thankfully, conversations around mental health and reducing stigma remained top of mind. In late 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry jointly declared the soaring rates of child mental health conditions a national emergency. DBSA responded with a campaign to pediatricians and new resources for parents and caregivers. In addition, DBSA has taken an official position that all youth and families should have access to a robust crisis response system that has developmentally appropriate policies, staffing, and resources in place to respond to their needs equitably and effectively.
Another movement to address the mental health crisis is the employment of the 988 number. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the 988-lifeline received over 2 million contacts, including calls, text messages, and chat messages nationally. This represents an increase of 43% over the previous year. Further good news, the response time decreased by 25% from the previous year.
I am on DBSA’s board because I am grateful and so privileged to have met so many people and families affected by depression and bipolar disorder and have witnessed the resiliency and the amazing opportunities that are made possible when the medical profession works in unison with people who are affected by mood disorders.
We are all enormously grateful to you, our supporters, and our community, as we go forward together in our relentless pursuit of mental health wellness for all.
Roger McIntyre, MD, FRCPC,
Board Chair
Find Community. Find Wellness. Find Hope.™
In the spring of 1978, Rose Kurland started her search for healing and support. After being hospitalized for depression, she began looking for self-help support groups for people living with depression. But she didn’t find any.
So, she started a support group in her living room.
Rose co-founded DBSA because she sought something revolutionary: A supportive community of people living with depression and bipolar disorder. She sought wellness on her terms, not those as defined by doctors, employers, or other outside sources. And, perhaps most salient of all, she sought hope: Hope for herself and for the future of all people living with mood disorders.
While our mission remains the same, the DBSA of today is much different from the organization founded in 1978. Last fall, DBSA introduced our new tagline: Find Community. Find Wellness. Find Hope.™ This new tagline will serve as a framework for communicating the mission, promise, and value of DBSA to those we serve.
DBSA is committed to actions that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to enhance mental wellness for all.
DBSA recognizes the unique ways identity, culture, and access affect people living with mood disorders. We strive to create safe and inclusive spaces for individuals to feel empowered on their own path to wellness. DBSA seeks to create equitable access to peer support services and mental health resources and advocate for all individuals with a lived experience with a mood disorder, regardless of cultural and social identity or systemic barriers.
The above statement is a result of a commitment DBSA made to our community three years ago. One of our core beliefs is that the lived experience of people should inform everything DBSA does. For too long, DBSA didn’t recognize the gap in sharing peer voices from historically marginalized communities. Since June of 2020, DBSA has worked with peers and DEI experts to help us audit our internal policies, communications, and resources to bridge that gap.
I have experienced discrimination, lack of access to care, and stigma, and I am still being targeted. I am passionate about peer support because I didn’t have a smooth experience when navigating the health care system. I want to be an ear to listen, a resource for help, a voice for those who cannot speak, and support people like me and my community.
– Nicole B., a student in DBSA’s Peer Apprentice Program and a U.S. Army Veteran
Finding Community
Peer Support
Our community of people living with mental health conditions, their families, and mental health advocates are at the heart of who we are and what we do. DBSA’s free peer support groups are available in-person and online to foster connections that lead to wellness.
85 local DBSA Chapters
Almost 21,000 online and in-person support group meetings are offered annually.
Nearly 350,000 participants attended a DBSA Support Group in 2022
80% of DBSA Online Support Group attendees reported feeling more hopeful after a meeting.
Additional Groups
In 2022, DBSA added more support groups for the Black community, designed to address the unique cultural needs of Black Americans, making a total of nine (9) support groups per week.
In Fall 2022, DBSA piloted a series of teen groups and parent and caregiver support groups. The parent and caregiver groups proved beneficial and became full support groups in January 2023.
Identity-Focused Groups
DBSA recognizes the unique ways that identity, culture, and access affect people living with mood disorders and strives to create safe and inclusive spaces for individuals to feel empowered on their own path to wellness.
An average of 34 people a month registered for the national online Veterans support group.
An average of 287 people a month attended the national online Black community support groups.
An average of 193 people a month registered for the national online co-occurring usage disorder support groups.
1.8 million
visits to DBSAlliance.org
People from all over the world come to DBSAlliance.org to learn more about depression and bipolar disorder, find support groups, and download free wellness tools.
DBSA Summit Most Successful to Date
The 2022 DBSA Summit once again featured keynote speaker and daytime television star Maurice Benard (“General Hospital”), who shared about his life growing up with and managing a mood disorder in 2021. In 2022, Benard acted in his capacity as Host of the Podcast State of Mind and interviewed DBSA CEO, Michael Pollock, and DBSA Peer Support Specialist and Facilitator, Michele Bibby.
500 registrants participated in 30 individual live and recorded sessions designed to educate and empower those living with depression or bipolar disorder, their families, and friends.
DBSA Young Adult Council Continues to Thrive
DBSA's Young Adult Council (YAC) added 12 new members in 2022, also increasing the diversity among the group by adding more male members and members from different backgrounds. They showed leadership during the DBSA Summit, presenting two sessions: “Words Matter: How We Talk About Mental Health” and “Just Diagnosed: Perspectives from the DBSA Young Adult Council”. Beyond leading and participating in webinars, they continue to build resources for other young adults.
Finding Wellness
Nearly 10,000
Mood Crew® games and activities downloaded
Resilience Building Starts in Childhood
In 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry jointly declared the soaring rates of child mental health conditions a national emergency and identified pediatric providers as critical gateways for expanded access to mental health screening and care. DBSA heard this call and saw an opportunity to provide pediatricians with free education and resources. With funding from American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, in late August 2022, we reached 5,000 pediatricians with these newly developed free assets.
Wellness Tools and Resources
Because nobody else experiences wellness or illness the same way, you get to define what wellness means for you. Your definition of wellness can change over time, depending on life experiences and environments. Having tools to reflect where you are on your path can help you find and maintain wellness. In addition, using the DBSA Wellness Tracker can be a great way for you and your health care provider to keep track of moods and symptoms, which helps your overall treatment.
Over 21,000
Wellness Wheel
and Wellness Tracker downloads
Over 8,000
podcast downloads
Over 5,000
brochure downloads
Peer Apprentice Program
In 2022, cohort one completed year two of the DBSA Peer Apprentice Program. We have seen great accomplishments come from our Peer Apprentices and are pleased to share their success stories.
Nicholas P., an Air Force Veteran, was hired by the Jesse Brown VA Hospital on September 26th, 2022, as a Veteran Peer Support Specialist. Nick states that he would not have been able to be considered for the position without the training and support of DBSA’s Peer Apprentice Program.
Nicole B., an Army Veteran, was chosen to assist with the design and implementation of Breakthrough Urban Ministries “Peer Empowerment Initiative”. Breakthrough Urban Ministries and DBSA have established a partnership that provides our Apprentices with a place to complete their 6-month internship that allows them to practice their Peer Support skills “on the job.”
Both Nick and Nicole are members of our inaugural cohort and are developing into leaders in the field of Peer Support. They both were supported by Boeing’s contribution to DBSA.
DBSA Peer Apprentices are currently placed with nonprofit organizations that work with marginalized communities, including BIPOC and Veterans.
Amplifying the Peer Voice
DBSA advocacy programs give peers an opportunity to share their experience with audiences including public health decision-makers and medical product developers. Last year:
50 peers participated in the Advocacy Track during our Summit
Peers participated in 18 external events including panelists or presenters at conferences
9 peer council groups were held
27 peers participated in individual interviews
3 peers represented DBSA on PCORI research stakeholder committees
Thousands of stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, and advocates heard the peer perspective, which supports treatment outcomes that are relevant to the peer.
7,000+
individuals served as advocates and trained peer specialists and facilitators
I joined the Marines at 18. My time in the military took me all around the world, most notably the Middle East where I served on Task Force Papa Bear during Operation Desert Storm. My time in the Middle East affected me greatly and aggravated my underlying mental health conditions. Not only was my mental health damaged (as I came back with PTSD) so was my spiritual health, too. My soul hurt and you do not have to be a veteran to experience that.
DBSA launched Season 2 of I’m Living Proof: A Letter to My Younger Self
Over 6,000 people downloaded stories from real people who have struggled with a mood disorder and still found a way to live the lives they want to lead. Wellness is possible for everyone; They’re living proof.
For example, Mik knew something was wrong when at 10 years old she experienced suicidal ideation. What started as something she couldn’t understand took her on a journey which ended up with her diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Now, Mik bravely shares her experience through humor and educational videos online and discusses her journey and activism with us.
DBSA Peer Awards
At the 2022 DBSA Summit, DBSA recognized four individuals whose support goes above and beyond. These individuals have served their community in extraordinary ways and have all helped others in recovery to thrive and live in wellness.
Susan Noonan, MD | DBSA Peer Specialist of the Year
Susan Noonan, MD, exemplifies how someone who lives with a mood condition can thrive through commitment, compassion, knowledge, and desire to share her lived experience with others. She has shared this knowledge as the author of two books for peers and caregivers.
Vail Smith, USMC | DBSA Veteran Peer Specialist of the Year
Vail creates safe spaces for other Veterans, listens, and connects to them. He is a pillar within Chicagoland’s Veteran community. Vail provides hope and stability to many of our nation’s heroes still searching to find their way.
Bert Patania, M.Ed., CADC | DBSA Peer Specialist Student of the Year
Bert’s client-directed work with high-risk youth and families in Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs demonstrates his commitment to creating thriving lives. He also diligently educates parents on dealing with the challenges of substance use and mental disorders among children.
Kimberly Allen, LCDC | DBSA’s Peer Advocate of the Year
As a global mental health advocate, Kimberly has worked tirelessly to bring the peer perspective to the forefront of public policy. As chair of the DBSA Texas Grassroots Organization, she worked to ensure mental health reform in Texas.
DBSA Gerald L. Klerman Awards
The Gerald L. Klerman Award is the highest honor that DBSA gives to members of the scientific community. Presented each year, this award recognizes researchers whose work advances knowledge of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of depression and bipolar disorder. Up to two awards are given annually in each of the following two categories: DBSA Gerald L. Klerman Award, Senior Investigator and DBSA Gerald L. Klerman Award, Young Investigator.
To help meet the increased demand for support and resources, DBSA invested additional funds in 2022 from our reserves.
Statement of Activities
| 2022 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | ||
|---|---|---|
| Contributions | $2,182,652 | $3,027,486 |
| Program fees | $366,884 | $259,747 |
| Net Investment Income | ($226,983) | $156,906 |
| Donated Goods and Other Services | $3,600 | $36,112 |
| Total Revenue | $2,326,153 | $3,480,251 |
|---|---|---|
| Expenses | ||
|---|---|---|
| Program Expenses | $2,506,124 | $2,136,713 |
| Supporting Services Expenses | ||
|---|---|---|
| Management and General | $514,003 | $464,584 |
| Fundraising | $438,624 | $316,515 |
| Total Supporting Services | $952,627 | $781,099 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Expenses | $3,458,751 | $2,917,812 |
|---|---|---|
| Change in Net Assets | $(1,132,598) | $562,419 |
|---|---|---|
| Net Assets, Beginning of Year | $3,969,985 | $3,407,546 |
| Net Assets, End of Year | $2,837,387 | $3,969,985 |
Statement of Financial Position
| 2022 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Assets | ||
|---|---|---|
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | $774,836 | $1,099,437 |
| Accounts Receivable | $27,732 | $12,108 |
| Contributions Receivable | $279,848 | $495,995 |
| Prepaid Expenses | $205,985 | $246,655 |
| Total Current Assets | $1,288,401 | $1,854,195 |
|---|---|---|
| Property and Equipment, Net | $380,169 | $497,697 |
|---|
| Other Assets | ||
|---|---|---|
| Deposits | $20,000 | $20,000 |
| Investments | $1,745,162 | $2,268,871 |
| Total Assets | $3,433,732 | $4,640,763 |
|---|---|---|
Liabilities and Net Assets
| Liabilities | ||
|---|---|---|
| Accounts Payable | $85,242 | $56,168 |
| Accrued Payroll and Vacation | $110,639 | $92,988 |
| Deferred Revenue | $6,705 | $10,230 |
| Operating Lease Liability | $393,759 | $511,392 |
| Total Liabilities | $596,345 | $670,778 |
|---|---|---|
| Net Assets | ||
|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | $2,381,156 | $3,145,397 |
| Donor Restricted | $456,231 | $824,588 |
| Total Net Assets | $2,837,387 | $3,969,985 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Liabilities and Net Assets | $3,433,732 | $4,640,763 |
|---|---|---|
Meet Our Team
Thank You
This work is only possible thanks to supporters like you. DBSA is deeply grateful for our community, staff, board of directors, volunteers, and donors who made our work possible in 2022 and beyond.
2022 Investors
$100,000 or More
Dauten Family Foundation
Paul and Mary Finnegan
Janssen
Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.
Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Teva Pharmaceuticals
$25,000 - $99,000
AbbVie Inc.
Alkermes, Inc.
ALKS Inspiration Grant
Axsome Therapeutics Inc
BioXcel Therapeutics
Boeing Corporation
Bryan and Iliana Cressey
Kent and Liz Dauten
Jim Gordon
Intra-Cellular Therapies
Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson
Lundbeck Inc.
Meta
Myriad Genetics
Novartis Pharma Ag
PCORI
Sage Therapeutics
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Sunovion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, Inc.
$10,000 - $24,999
Andrew and Alice Fischer Charitable Trust
Anonymous (3)
Atai Life Sciences
Baszucki Brain Research Fund
Benevity Community Impact Fund
Carole B. and Kenneth J. Boudreaux
Foundation
CIBC Bank USA
Community Health Charities
The Marc Haas Foundation
Miranda Cooper
Harman Family Foundation
Harri Hoffman Family Foundation
Henry Foundation, Inc.
Holmusk Technologies, Inc.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Illinois Joining Forces (IJF)
Ellen Krantz
Lillian Goldman Charitable Trust
Limbix
LivaNova USA, Inc.
Network for Good
Support Group Central (Hey Peers)
Sydney & Stanley S. Shuman
University of Washington
Ms. Rebecca Weinstein Bacon
$5,000 - $9,999
Ms. Christy B. Beckmann and Mr. Jim Vykopal
Mrs. Frances S. Belasco
Suzanne and James Bergoffen
Charityvest, Inc.
Department of Veteran Affairs: Strategic Acquisition Center
Efficient CME
Nona Fine
Shaun and Selme Finnie
Steven and Jani Harris
Jeremy Hedrick
Mr. Bradley S. Hvolbeck
Eva Csordasne Kohegyi
Todd Lanscioni
Dr. Robert Z. Lawrence
Ms. Susan L. Madian
Thomas Miglis
Larry Richman
Carol Rubin and Steve Kaplan
Gary Sachs, M.D.
Chaz Trenholm
$2,500 - $4,999
Ms. Isela Bahena
Bright Funds Foundation
Mr. Edward Brill
Robert Brown
CISCRP - Center for Information & Study on Clinical Research
David and Liz Chandler
Evidera
Mark A Frye, M.D.
Give Lively Foundation Inc.
Ms. Barbara J. Glynn
House Of Cards
Eileen Kamerick
Mr. Baromkoch Leenutaphong
Mr. MJ Leman and Carolyn Leman
Jim and Jane Ann Lockwood
Bridget Maul
Mr. Michael Pollock
Margaret Annett and Stephen Poma
Prime Inc
Seton Hall University
Dr. Altha Stewart
Trisha Suppes, M.D., Ph.D
Mr. Darrel K. Wilcox
University Of Cincinnati Medical College
Douglas Williamson
$1,500 - $2,499
Ms. Kimberly Allen and Susie Brodsky
Dr. and Mrs. Mark S. Bauer
Kathy Bernstein
Terrance and Georgia Blazevic
Mr. Danvers Boardman
Dr. John Budin
Bill Campbell
Victoria Chumney
CIBC Sixscense St INTACHTRN
Ms. Roberta Culbertson
Marlea and Barry Gruver
Justin Haber
Karen and Seth Hieken
Mrs. Merry Beth Kowalczyk
Ms. Pam Malfitano
Ms. Ellen Malow
Mrs. Carole Mourad
Patient Access Network Foundation
John and Mary Quinn
RALI
Relmada Therapeutics, Inc.
Ms. Victoria Rosskam
Sarah Salice
Tod Tappert
Myrna Weissman, Ph.D.
Xcenda
$1,000 - $1,499
Krishna and Ja-Ling Agrawal
Tatiana Allen
Anonymous (3)
Ms. Cynthia Ballard
Bengt and Marianne Bjernfalk
The Blackbaud Giving Fund
Mrs. Lisa A. Blazar
Ida and Steve Chan
Charities Aid Foundation
Mr. Eamonn Cleary
Dr. Mary A. Fristad and Dr. Joseph F. Fiala
Mr. Jeffrey Hall
Investis Digital
Edward and Mary Jinks
Kathleen Kirk
Jason Kreuziger and JoJo Bahnam
Mr. Michael W. Kuhl
William B. Lawson, M.D.,Ph.D., F.A.P.A.
Barbara and Kenneth Mais
Dr. Lauren Marangell
Pasquale Mascaro Jr.
William Masterson
Glenn McCarthy
Roger S. McIntyre MD FRCPC
Jill and Marc Mehl
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Merritt
Pierre Mourad
David N. Osser, M.D.
Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo A. Pascoe
Roy Perlis
Mr. Bruce Pfaff
PhRMA
Mr. Donald Provasi
Nancy Pyron
Christopher and Lori Rothko
John Rush, M.D.
Karen and Stephen Sanger
Marian Sassetti, M.D.
Sara Madeleine Saz
Dr. Gregory Simon
Richard Smiley
Dr. John S. Tamerin and Ms. Susan Penry-William
Joan Tanner
Kurt and Lisa Terrien
Ken and Pat Thompson
Cameron and Jane Thornton Vanguard
Mrs. Tan T. Vu
Tracy Whitlock
Matthew and Holly Yeterian