EDUCATION PROGRAMS

NAMI Ending the Silence is an engaging presentation that helps audience members learn about the warning signs of mental health conditions and what steps to take if you or a loved one are showing symptoms of a mental health condition.

NAMI Ending the Silence presentations include two leaders: one who shares an informative presentation and a young adult with a mental health condition who shares their journey of recovery. Audience members can ask questions and gain understanding of an often-misunderstood topic. Through dialogue, we can help grow the movement to end stigma.

 Free of cost to schools and communities.

• NAMI Ending the Silence for Students:  A 50-minute  presentation designed for middle and high school students that includes warning signs, facts and statistics and how to get help for themselves or a friend. Research has shown that NAMI Ending the Silence for Students is effective in changing middle and high school students’ knowledge and attitudes toward mental health conditions and toward seeking help
• NAMI Ending the Silence for School Staff:  A one-hour  presentation for school staff that includes information about warning signs, facts and statistics, how to approach students and how to work with families
• NAMI Ending the Silence for Families:  A one-hour  presentation for adults with middle or high school aged youth that includes warning signs, facts and statistics, how to talk with your child, and how to work with school staff

“I’m really grateful and glad that you talked to us. I often feel very alone or weird, because many kids my age don’t understand, but now  I’m sure they would be more supportive of me.” 

-Student 

“It is amazing what just one day, one talk can do. You never really  know what’s going on in the brain of any particular student.” 

-Teacher

"Recently parents from two different families reached out to me, after  their children had seen NAMI Ending the Silence. Both were thanking me for the work we do, along with being grateful to know about us as a  resource. They were able to have very meaningful and open conversations with their children/students and happy they are getting this information in the school setting." 

-ETS Program Leader  

To request a NAMI Ending the Silence presentation, please contact Denise Nelson, Education Coordinator,  at (559) 627-1306.   

There are no upcoming classes scheduled at this time.

Get added to our interest list to receive information when we offer a class.

 This program is offered in English and Spanish. 

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, eight-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. It is a designated evidenced-based program. This means that research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to a person with a mental health condition. NAMI Family-to-Family is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussions and interactive exercises.

NAMI Family-to-Family not only provides information and strategies for taking care of the person you love, but you'll also find out that you're not alone. Recovery is a journey, and there is hope.

The group setting of NAMI Family-to-Family provides mutual support and shared positive impact — experience, compassion, and reinforcement — from people who understand your situation. Sharing your own experience may help others in your class. In the program, you'll learn about:

• How to solve problems and communicate effectively
• Taking care of yourself and managing your stress
• Supporting your loved one with compassion
• Finding and using local supports and services
• Up-to-date information on mental health conditions and how they effect the brain
• How to handle a crisis
• Current treatments and therapies
• The impact of mental health conditions on the entire family

"The course gave me hope that it will be okay, that I am not alone, and reduced a lot of shame, guilt, and hopelessness."  

"I wish I'd known about this seven years ago, when the problem began. I felt safe in this class. I was able to talk about things I haven't been comfortable expressing elsewhere."  

"Before I took the course, I felt alone and overwhelmed dealing with my daughter’s mental illness. By taking this course, I have met others who are going through the same things I am and have learned about many  resources that I never knew existed." 

To get added to our interest list for Family-to-Family, please submit the interest form below or contact our office.

There are no upcoming classes scheduled at this time.

Get added to our interest list to receive information when we offer a class.

NAMI Peer-to-Peer is a free, eight-session educational program for adults with mental health conditions who are looking to better understand themselves and their recovery.  Taught by trained leaders with lived experience, this program includes  activities, discussions and informative videos.  However, as with all  NAMI programs, it does not include recommendations for treatment approaches.

NAMI Peer-to-Peer is a safe, confidential space. The course provides an opportunity for mutual support and growth. Experience compassion and understanding from people who relate to your experiences. This is a  place to learn more about recovery in an accepting environment.  NAMI Peer-to-Peer helps you:

• Set a vision and goals for the future
• Partner with health care providers
• Develop confidence for making decisions
• Practice relaxation and stress reduction tools
• Share your story
• Strengthen relationships
• Enhance communication skills
• Learn about mental health treatment options

“I am now aware that I’m not alone. I’d like to become more involved with NAMI and advocacy.” 

“I’ve really learned how to cope with my triggers better, and I’m now on the path to truly loving myself.” 

“I’ve learned how to communicate with my parents about what’s going on with me.”  

"NAMI Peer-to-Peer gave me hope when I was close to giving up.  I realized that things can and do get better and that my mental health condition doesn’t define me.  I learned how to speak up for myself, build a strong support network, and make plans for my future.  I felt welcome and like I was among friends.  Most importantly, I felt heard and understood.” 

To get added to our interest list for Peer-to-Peer, please submit the interest form below or contact our office.