The story of MDO began in 1986 with four strangers in search of an opportunity to share similar experiences with mental health and offer support to one another.  Since then, MDO has developed into an organization with an extensive membership for people with mood disorders run entirely by peer volunteers.  Together, those involved with MDO still strive to offer needed support along mental health recovery journeys and a beacon of hope for individuals living with mental health challenges that they can and do live well.

MDO recognizes the importance of peer support as an integral part of recovery.  Peers encourage each other and provide a sense of belonging, trusting relationships, valued roles, mentoring and community.  All of this combines to help individuals never feel alone and helps reduce the risk of suicide.  Peers benefit from learning and sharing recovery-oriented practices including relapse prevention, self-help, lifestyle habits, experiential knowledge or skills, social learning & mutual empowerment.

MDO provides an environment for individuals to share experiences, challenges and information through different programs.  These include peer support groups, Pathways to Recovery, WRAP, art-based programs, creative writing programs, physical movement programs and much, much more.