Too often, mental illness is an isolating experience, accompanied by profound anxiety. When your family member or friend is diagnosed with a mental illness such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other condition, talking with someone to share coping strategies and insights, as well as problems and concerns, can be an important link in the path to recovery.

NAMI Family Support Group is a recovery support group program for people whose loved one is living with mental illness. It is expanding in communities throughout the country. These groups provide a place that offers respect, understanding, encouragement, and hope.

How are NAMI Family Support Groups structured?
 

NAMI Family Support groups offer a casual and

relaxed approach to sharing the challenges and successes of coping with mental illness.

Each group:

• Meets weekly for 90 minutes

• Is offered free of charge

• Follows a flexible structure without an educational format

• Does not recommend or endorse any medications or other medical therapies

There is no need to register—just come when you feel like you need someone to talk to.  The groups are led by trained individuals who themselves have loved ones living with a mental illness. They understand your daily challenges and can offer you encouragement and support. All groups are confidential—you can share as much or as little personal information as you wish.  NAMI Family Support groups should add to and not replace your current recovery plan.

Who can attend a NAMI Family Support Group?

NAMI Family Support Groups are open to all adults who have a family member or friend who is living with mental illness, regardless of diagnosis. Please feel welcome to drop by and share your feelings, difficulties, or successes. Everyone is a valued participant. Anyone with a family member or friend with mental illness who needs support in their recovery process can encourage them to attend a NAMI Connections Support group, too. Let them know how good it is to be with others who can say, “I’ve been there, I understand.”