The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Rowan County is offering a free, 12-week course for family caregivers or friends of individuals with severe mental illnesses.
The Family to Family classes begin in January.
The course is taught by people who have dealt with the same issues in their own families. All instruction and course materials are free to class participants.
More than 300,000 family members have graduated from this national, evidence-based program.
The course includes:
Current information about schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders.
Up-to-date information about medications, side effects, and strategies for medication adherence.
Current research related to the biology of brain disorders and the evidence-based, most effective treatments to promote recovery
Gaining empathy by understanding the subjective, lived experience of a person with mental illness
Learning in special workshops for problem solving, listening, and communication techniques
Acquiring strategies for handling crises and relapse
Focusing on care for the caregiver: coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload
Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community
Information on advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services
NAMI Rowan will offer the Family to Family class beginning Saturday, Jan. 7, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1908 Statesville Blvd.
Registration is required. Contact Peggy Mangold at 704-640-8811 or email at mangoldpeggy92@gmail.com.
For further information about classes, contact the NAMI National (www.nami. org) Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or NAMI NC (www.naminc.org) Helpline 1-800- 451-9682 ( NC only).