Register NOW for NAMI Family to Family Class Starting in February

Family to Family is for family members, partners and friends of individuals with major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia schizoaffective disorder, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the anxiety disorders of panic-attack and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as co-occurring addictive disorders. The class uses a curriculum developed by the professional staff at NAMI's national offices, and is taught by volunteers who have successfully completed NAMI's teacher training program and have a family member with mental illness themselves. Recent studies have shown the class to be very effective in helping families cope with the mental illness of their family member. "This course is a wonderful experience" said one student. "It balances basic education and skills training with emotional support, self-care and empowerment".

Topics include current research in the biology of brain disorders, medications, and strategies for handling crisis and relapse. There will be special workshops in problem solving, listening, and communication techniques, as well as gaining empathy by understanding the subjective, lived experience of a person with mental illness.

Classes will be held in two locations. One will be held in Barrington and the other at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights. There is no cost to participate in a Family to Family class, you don't need to be a NAMI member, and it doesn't matter if you live in a particular chapter's area to attend. The class meets once a week for 12 weeks. We tend to fill up early, so it's a great idea to call now and get on the list.

To register for this class or other education and support groups offered by NAMI Barrington Area, call Maryrose at 847-496-1415.