This organisation was originally formed in 1983 by concerned relatives and others in response to the serious difficulties often faced by people living with Schizophrenia. The organisation was then known as the Schizophrenia Fellowship of SA.

The name was changed in 2002 to the Mental Illness Fellowship of SA to better reflect the needs of all people living with mental illness. In 2006, the Mental Illness Fellowship of SA and the Mood Disorders Association (SA) amalgamated in order to present a stronger voice in lobbying for improved services and outcomes for those living with mental illness and their families. The name of the organsiation has remained 'The Mental Illness Fellowship of SA' with a new constitution developed to represent the interests of both organisations.

The Mood Disorders Association (SA) Inc. was formed in 1983 by concerned relatives of those living with manic depression. The organisation was originally called 'Manic Depressive Psychosis (MDP) Support Group' and was later changed to 'Mood Disorders Association of SA' to better represent those accessing the services - people living with all kinds of mood disorder were catered for. Mood Disorders Association (SA) has always had a strong focus on community education and provision of support services to consumers and carers.

Mood Disorders Association (SA) is now amalgamated with the Mental Illness Fellowship of SA, which is a state branch of the national organisation - the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia. The majority of states in Australia have a represenative branch.