family-to-familyThis free program for Adults (18 and older) is comprised of a series of 8 classes for the families of persons with serious and persistent brain disorders (mental illnesses). These classes are small and represent a new concept and curriculum. In this model, the course co-teachers are family members themselves and the course has been designed and written by an experienced family member-mental health professional. The course balances education and skill-training with self care, emotional support and empowerment.

Important components of the course are:

  • Information about Schizophrenia, Major Depression, Bipolar Illness (Manic Depression), Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Disorder (OCD).
  • Coping skills, handling crisis and relapse.
  • Listening and communication techniques.
  • Problem solving and limit setting; rehabilitation.
  • Understanding the actual experience of people suffering from mental illnesses.
  • Self-care; learning how to recognize normal emotional reactions among families to chronic worry and stress.
  • Basic information about medications and their side effects.
  • Information about connecting with appropriate community services and community supports.
  • Advocacy: getting better services, fighting discrimination.
  • Remember, seating is limited.

How Do I Register?

family

If you found a class that works for your schedule:

  • Click on the Family-to-Family Calendar icon.
  • Find the class you want to register for in the calendar and click on the class which will open a registration page.
  • Complete the registration information. You will be contacted prior to the start date of the class.

If you did not find a class that works for your schedule, we are frequently adding new classes, please click on the green Add Me to the Interest List button and complete the information page.

For more information, email f2f@namisd.org, or call 619 543-1434 or 800 523-5933

NAMI Tribute Video: