This committee is comprised of family
members of persons with serious mental illness, who have
first-hand knowledge of the challenges of living with mental
illness.
Families often have feelings of despair and hopelessness.
They do not understand the mental illness, or what their
loved one is experiencing. Family members are not always
involved in the treatment process. At times, family members
deal with their own stigma and fear regarding their loved
one’s mental illness.
Up to 70% of consumers live with their families. A
supportive family can be a major attribute in the recovery
process.
In addition to strengthening supportive networks for family
members, the Families for Mental Health committee also plans
educational events and promotes advocacy.
The Committee also sponsors the NAMI Family-to-Family
Education Program - A free twelve-week educational series
for family members, structured to help family members
understand and support their ill relative, while maintaining
their well being.
The Families for Mental Health Committee
developed a Family Guide for persons who support someone
with a mental illness. The
Family Guide has been updated as a web resource and
can be accessed by clicking this link..
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