Though we have a dating community, it is not at all exclusive. We use the database of another Dating Service on the Internet. So who you meet may not be someone from the Sanctuary at all. 

The idea of providing a dating community on this site came at the request of someone who wrote in requesting one; stating that it would be nice to meet others with similar mental health disorders. This made me think of myself and how comfortable I felt meeting my husband knowing that he too had similar disorders and how understanding he was and is and vice-versa. 

Membership is free and if you are looking for someone with similar disorders, I encourage you to mention the disorders that you have been diagnosed with when you sign in and perhaps that you are looking for someone with similar disorders who is WELL INTO RECOVERY or someone who is understanding.

CAUTION:  I do not recommend a relationship or even dating to anyone who is not WELL into recovery. Remember our "stuff" comes out in relationships and many times relationships, if we are not doing well, combined with low self esteem, depression, etc., can put us at risk of suicide, self harm, etc.

If you are abusing drugs or alcohol, wait at least one year after you are clean and sober before you even date.

I cannot emphasize this "caution" enough! Many people think because they are not feeling well, that a relationship will make them feel better and bring them out of depression. You will just be a person who is depressed who is in a relationship and relationships bring lots of problems and issues all it's own as you probably know.

If you are just coming out of a relationship you need to spend time to grieve this relationship before you even think about dating again. It's no fun grieving two relationships. Beware of the rebound.

Remember, it is difficult enough dealing with a mental health disorder as it is. We need to keep stress at a minimum so go gently with yourself and make wise decisions. You deserve it. 

A relationship will not fix you. Remember that you must heal from the inside out and that it is when you are feeling good first, is the time to let a relationship in.

When you really learn and understand the phrase "Happiness comes from within," your mental health disorder(s) are under control where you are well into recovery, you are feeling well within and you don't NEED a relationship, it MAY be time to be available for a date. It might be a good idea to ask your therapist or your doctor who really know you.

Sanctuary Dating Community