Spotlight on: NAMI

Considering COVID-19 and everything we’re collectively processing and grappling with, I can’t think of a more deserving organization to highlight than NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. 

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.

Their online resources are robust and contain a document on Coronavirus mental health coping strategies. Beyond that, they provide support and education not only for those who suffer mental illness, but also for the families and friends of those who know and love someone suffering from symptoms.

NAMI is close to my heart as they were a resource for a close relative of mine that began experiencing serious symptoms of psychosis as a teenager. It was a terrifying time for this young person and his family, who sought support from NAMI. Because of their guidance and resources, the family was able to navigate the condition successfully, and my relative now leads a successful, happy life at the same time as managing this illness.

I follow @NAMIcommunicate because they have helpful tips and insights on how to manage mental health in a very stigma-free way.