We have all faced new and unprecedented challenges in 2020, as our community and world adapts to COVID-19.
In March, NAMI Metro Baltimore began to respond and do our part to mitigate the spread of the virus. At that time, we knew that our programs could not cease. NAMI’s education programs and support groups provide life-changing help.
We also recognized that our community would need us more than ever as they coped with social distancing and managed their mental health, anxiety and fear.
We didn’t stall. We adapted. We innovated. We worked tirelessly to ensure that our community has access to the care they need.
Our volunteers answered the call. They helped us to launch online support groups within 2 weeks. By mid-June, we began hosting 4 ongoing groups for peers and families. We’ve also hosted virtual NAMI education programs, and have plans to continue offering Family-to-Family and Peer-to-Peer classes throughout the summer.
Below are a few words our support group participants have shared with us about the value of our continued programming.
“I just finished participating in the Virtual Connection Support Group and I wanted to let you to know how helpful it was to me…With the current deadly virus threat and the requirement that everyone stay inside their homes, it is doubly (and sometimes triply) depressing and lonely. For me, this support group was a positive and uplifting experience and I plan to attend every meeting. I’m not always this upbeat but I know that the people I met will help me through, what I call, my dark days. And I will help them.“
–NAMI Support Group Participant
“Everyone was so open and respectful. …The group reminded me of the value of talking about mental illness and hardships in a group setting. I wasn’t expecting this, but sharing my personal experiences and listening to others’ lifted a little weight off my chest. I am so grateful that NAMI offers these resources and connections.”
–NAMI Support Group Participant
We need your support.
We are making a difference. As we continue to do whatever it takes to provide mental health programs to our community here in Baltimore, we ask you to join us. Your donation allows NAMI Metro Baltimore to continue providing our services at absolutely no cost to participants. Your support will help us to continue to adapt, innovate, and meet the challenges of this moment.
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