What is NAMI’s Family-to-Family Program?

The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program is a free, 8-week course for family caregivers of individuals with severe mental illnesses.

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people living with mental illness. It is a designated evidenced-based program. Research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to an individual living with a mental health condition.NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people living with mental illness. It is a designated evidenced-based program. Research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to an individual living with a mental health condition.

NAMI Family-to-Family is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussion and interactive exercises.

• The course is taught by trained family members
• All instruction and course materials are free to class participants
• Over 300,000 family members have graduated from this national program

What does the course include?

• 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