When learning that yourself or a loved one may have a mental illness or behavioral health issue a search for information often ensues. The following resources provide additional information and education to individuals, family members, and friends seeking resources.

Other resources that may be of assistance include Finding Help by Location, Navigating the System, and Support Groups.

Depression in the Family: Audio Podcast Series

The Depression in the Family Podcast is for family members or friends of someone with depression or bipolar disorder. The podcast features experts and family members who help you learn and feel supported. Past topics have included: Caring for a Depressed Elderly Parent, How to Find and Pay for Treatment, Family Communication, and Caregiver Burnout.

Click here to access the latest podcast.

Support and Family Education (SAFE): For Families and Friends of Veterans Who Struggle with Mental Illness

Support and Family Education (The SAFE Program) is a monthly 1 ½ hour confidential workshop for family members and friends of Veterans. There is no cost associated with participating in the program. All adolescent and adult family members of Veterans are welcome to participate.

Attending the SAFE program provides opportunities to:

• Talk to other family members in similar situations
• Learn more about causes, treatments, and medications for mental illness
• Receive emotional support and encouragement
• Ask mental health staff about mental illness
• Learn about treatment options at VA NWICHS, Omaha, and in the community
• Learn how to make time for yourself as a caregiver

If you would like to learn more about the SAFE program, please contact Natalie at 1-800-451-5796 ext. 9-4944 or Colleen at 1-800-451-5796 ext. 9-4396.

NAMI Connection Recovery Support Groups

NAMI’s Connection Recovery Support Groups are support group meetings led by trained individuals who are in recovery from mental illness themselves.

NAMI Connection is a weekly recovery support group for people living with mental illness in which people learn from each others’ experiences, share coping strategies, and offer each other encouragement and understanding. All groups are confidential; participants can share as much or as little personal information as they wish.

Click here to find a NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group meeting near you.

NAMI Family to Family Education Program

The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program is a free, 12-week course for family caregivers of individuals with severe mental illnesses.

The course is taught by trained family members and covers topics including:

• 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

Participants gain empathy by understanding the subjective, lived experience of a person with mental illness. Special workshops address problem solving, listening, and communication techniques. Focus is dedicated to the caregiver addressing issues such as coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload as well as acquiring strategies for handling crises and relapse. Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community is provided alongside information on advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services.

For more information on NAMI’s Family to Family Education Program please call toll-free (877) 463-6264.