Will you be our discussion leader?

The Depression Association brings together people who have experienced depression (or more). We also call this 'fellow sufferers'. We offer fellow sufferers the opportunity to share experiences in a support group.

A support group is a form of self-help. Such a group consists of about 8 people who have or have had depression. They meet once a month to exchange experiences and discuss how they deal with their depression in daily life, what they encounter. Everything that has to do with depression can be discussed in these groups.

As a discussion leader, you guide the group process and ensure that everyone feels safe.

For an existing group in Apeldoorn we are looking for 2 new conversation leaders. A conversation leader has experience with depression and wants to use this experience for others who are going through depression, or have gone through depression.

In order to guide a group well, it is necessary that you are able to use your own experience, but not to see it as a guideline for others. You are able to rise above your own experience with depression. You are able to give participants space to find their own way. In this way, every participant feels accepted.

In addition, the following are important:

-A warm personality and genuine interest in others.

-Sensing people and being able to put them at ease.

-Be flexible, meetings may go differently than you planned in advance.

-You live in the area. The group is always held at the same location on the third Tuesday of every month.

-Availability of a time investment of approximately 5 hours per month for a longer period (at least one year), given the nature of the group.

With this volunteer work you use your own experience to help other people move forward. You will receive a 2-day training for conversation guides (GBs) in Utrecht. Here you will receive more information about support groups and the manual for GBs. We will also practice some cases. In addition, you will follow an online training of 113. After

the training you will receive a volunteer contract. You will work together in a group with a fellow conversation leader. Your regional coordinator offers support during the start-up and with questions or problems that arise in the group. The regional coordinator also provides intervision with you and other conversation leaders.

Also take a look at the website of the Depression Association.

When you express your interest, you will be invited for a digital introductory meeting.