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Innovation drive mental health support: NAMI Metro Suburban goes virtual, creates community in the midst of COVID-19

The familiar proverb - Necessity is the mother of invention - is resounding true for nonprofit organizations across all missions and focus areas during the upheaval of the pandemic. At NAMI Metro Suburban, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness serving the near West suburbs of Cook County, this adage of invention by virtue of necessity captures the requisite efforts of the organization to reach those in need of support for mental health concerns.

As recommendations and guidance for social distancing has risen in gravity and seriousness in efforts to flatten the curve of the pandemic, the prevalence of Mental Illness certainly has not decreased. One in five American adults experience some form of mental illness in any given year. Diagnosed or not, current distress related to mental health is a major concern for Americans. According to The Washington Post that cited a tracking poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation: 45 percent of adults say the pandemic has affected their mental health, and 19 percent say it has had a "major impact."

As the ensue of Coronavirus-related concerns, precautions and protections materialized, it became clear that NAMI Metro Suburban would be altering-in a very substantial way-how to reach those in need. So began the motions to adapt as an organization. "With the recognition that higher stress levels and complex emotions can be exacerbated by feelings of isolation," said Kimberly Knake, NAMI Metro Suburban's Executive Director, "we were intensely aware of the necessity to continue serving as a place hope and support for the community."

As a result, NAMI Metro Suburban has gone virtual by offering a slate of online, call-in and real-time support:

• Open Discussions: Daily Topics to help you stay connected and learn new skills.

• Family to Family: Proving support, hope, and shared experiences for family members supporting a loved one with a mental health condition.

• Connections: Peer-led, support group for individuals living with a mental health condition.

• NAMI Living Room: A safe service where you can talk with a peer if you are experiencing life's emotional stresses (Staffed 1pm-9pm, daily): 708-582-6580

Shelly Lustrup, Director of Recovery Support Services at NAMI Metro Suburban, articulated, "knowing that there is easy access to support for any anxieties, fears or concerns related to mental health is critical for community residents. Right now it's vital for everyone."

Please email info@namimetsub.org for more information or to join in any of NAMI Metro Suburban's ongoing groups.

About NAMI Metro Suburban

NAMI Metro Suburban's mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities who have been affected by mental illness by providing advocacy, support, and education in the Western suburbs of Cook County.

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