National Alliance for the Mentally ill

Wayne-Holmes NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) is a local organization whose members provide support, education and advocacy for families, friends, and individuals living with brain disorders and other mental illnesses. A yearly membership fee of $18 covers the cost of the local monthly newsletter listing local opportunities as well as informative state and national newsletters.

Support
Support from people who have experienced mental illness in a family member helps families deal with the stress mental illness places on a family. Support groups are also a valuable resource for finding appropriate services. Families In Touch for Mental Health is affiliated with Ohio AMI and NAMI. This group provides support and education to families.

Other support groups, such as Suicide Prevention Coalition and C.A.R.E.  Team  --Teen Advisory Group are also available in the area and those belonging to these groups may also be members of Wayne-Holmes NAMI. Often a member of the group provides telephone support between meetings.

Education
Whether you are a family member, a person diagnosed with mental illness, or a mental health professional, there is always something new to learn mental illnesses and their treatment. Education benefits everyone. Credit and non-credit opportunities are offered each year through the Mental Health & Recovery Board. Wayne-Holmes NAMI Membership assures you of receiving mailings local educational events. Education is also part of many support group meetings. Family to Family is a more in-depth education program taught by and for family members.

Advocacy
We live in a time when people want to have an open mind mental illness. NAMI membership helps you learn to talk it -- that's what we call "advocacy." Each year new studies are made in helping the public become more aware of both the potential and the special needs of those who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness. State and national received by all dues-paying NAMI members provide accurate, up-to-date information legislation and treatment. NAMI links you with a wealth of resources from across the nation.

For more information:

Wayne & Holmes NAMI website: www.nami-wh.org