Support from family members can make a big difference in the life of someone experiencing mental health challenges. NAMI’s family education and support programs offer support, empathy, and valuable information to help you in supporting a loved one while maintaining your own well being.
NAMI Family-to-Family
NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people living with mental illness. It is a designated evidence-based program that includes presentations, discussion and interactive exercises. Research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to an individual living with a mental health condition.
What You’ll Gain
NAMI Family-to-Family provides critical information and strategies for taking care of the person you love.
In the program, you’ll learn about:
- How to manage crises, solve problems and communicate effectively
- Taking care of yourself and managing your stress
- Developing the confidence and stamina to provide support with compassion
- Finding and using local supports and services
- Up-to-date information on mental health conditions and how they affect the brain
- Current treatments, including evidence-based therapies, medications and side effects
- The impact of mental illness on the entire family
Register for a Class
NAMI Family-to-Family is now offered virtually. Space is limited and advanced registration is required. To register for the class, please contact our HelpLine at (410) 435-2600 or email info@namibaltimore.org.
NAMI Family-to-Family
Location: Online via Zoom
Dates: Saturdays, October 24th – December 19th, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
NAMI Basics
NAMI Basics is a free, 6-session education program for parents and family caregivers of children and teens who are experiencing mental health issues. You’ll learn the facts about mental health conditions and how best to support your child at home, at school and when they’re getting medical care.
What You’ll Gain
The 6-session, peer-led program provides critical strategies for taking care of your child and learning the ropes of recovery.
NAMI Basics covers:
- Managing crises, solving problems and communicating effectively
- How to take care of yourself and handle stress
- Developing the confidence and stamina to support your child with compassion
- Advocating for your child’s rights at school and in health care settings
- Learning about current treatments, including evidence-based therapies, medications and side effects
- Gaining an overview of the public mental health care, school, and juvenile justice systems
- Understanding the challenges and impact of mental health conditions on your entire family
Register for a Class
Please check our website for schedule updates. If you would like to join an interest list for an upcoming NAMI Basics course, please contact our HelpLine at 410-435-2600.
NAMI Family Support Group
**Please note, NAMI Family Support Group meetings are suspended in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Beginning April 2nd, a weekly NAMI Family Support Group meeting will be offered online via Zoom call. Learn more.**
NAMI Family Support Group is a peer-led support group for family members, caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with mental illness. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar circumstances.
NAMI’s support groups are unique because they follow a structured model, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to be heard and get what they need. It encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community.
Attend a Support Group
Family Support Group
*Please note all support groups are being offered online. You can click here to register for the online Family Support Group, which meets every Thursday from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Sheppard Pratt, Gibson Building Room 200
Every Thursday, 7:00pm-8:30pm
1 Friends Lane, Baltimore, MD 21204
Free parking is available at the Gibson Building. You can also reference this map for your convenience. Participants who arrive more than 15 minutes after start of group may not be permitted to enter.
The LocalLink 53 bus runs through Sheppard Pratt’s campus.
Family Support Group
Christian Temple
1st and 3rd Mondays of every month, 7:00-8:30pm
5820 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228
Free parking is available.
Caregiver Circle
Caregiver Circle is a free, peer-based, mutual support program for caregivers to loved ones living with a co-occurring mental health and substance use condition. Trained facilitators offer support and practical knowledge to participants as they guide productive discussion. The program will help participants strengthen family support by providing resources, connection with others with similar experiences, and hope for recovery.
Caregiver Circle meet for seven, 90-minute sessions. Topics addressed will include self-care, treatment compliance, and managing relapses. This program was developed by the Metro Baltimore affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Participate in the Program
To join our interest list for future Caregiver Circles, please contact our HelpLine at (410) 435-2600 or email info@namibaltimore.org.
