(Submitted by National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Do you struggle with a mental health condition? Do you struggle with your loved ones mental health condition? You are not alone.
One in five American families has a member with a mental illness (National Institutes of Mental Health.) Yet though these conditions are far from rare, affected families can feel isolated. They may not know others in their situation, how to cope with their loved one’s symptoms, or how to get him or her the best care.
That’s why NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Wood County offers FREE educational programs and support groups for local families touched by mental illness. Those interested may call NAMI Wood County at 419-352-0626 or e-mail info@namiwoodcounty.org for more information or to register.
Family-to-Family is a twelve-session class taught by trained relatives of individuals living with mental illness. The course provides participants with information on mental illnesses, their symptoms and diagnosis, and treatment options. Instructors also share strategies for caring for loved ones with these conditions. The next Family-to-Family class will begin Monday, March 5th and continue through May 21st from 6:000 -8:00 PM at the NAMI Wood County office, 541 West Wooster Street in Bowling Green. The Family Support Group to accompany the class meets the last Wednesday of every month from 7:00 to 8:30 PM, also at the NAMI WC office. A group including both family members and peers meets the first and third Thursday of the month from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at the Way Public Library in Perrysburg.
Peer-to-Peer is for adults living with mental illness. A trained facilitator, who is also in recovery from mental illness, covers topics including medications, treatment, options, coping skills, and advocacy. Participants share their struggles and successes with each other and form a network of support. Peer-to-Peer runs from Wednesday, March 7th through May 9th from 4:00pm-6:00pm at the NAMI Wood County office, 541 West Wooster. NAMI Connection, a support group for Peer-to-Peer participants, meets every Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:30 PM, also at the NAMI WC office. A combined group including both family members and peers meets the first and third Thursday of the month from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at the Way Public Library in Perrysburg.
For thirty years NAMI Wood County has provided education, support, and advocacy for Wood County families affected by mental illness. It is one of over 1,100 NAMI affiliates across the nation.
Grow with us this Spring at a NAMI Wood County class or support group and feel less alone!
