Families of adults with mental health conditions can sign up for a free eight-session course in Cobb County starting Wednesday, Oct. 28.
NAMI Cobb's Family-to-Family program is open to family members, friends and significant others of people living with conditions including anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Sessions cover communication strategies, problem-solving techniques, treatment options and recovery, according to NAMI Cobb's registration page.
The course is peer-led. Instructors are trained family members who themselves have a loved one with a mental health condition, not clinicians. That model is central to the program's approach.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness designates Family-to-Family as an evidence-based program, meaning research has shown it significantly improves coping and problem-solving abilities among participants.
Sessions include presentations, group discussions and interactive exercises. The curriculum also addresses how to handle a crisis, manage stress and understand the impact of a mental health condition on a family.
One anonymous testimonial on NAMI's national website reads: "The course gave me hope that it will be okay, that I am not alone and reduced a lot of shame, guilt and hopelessness."
NAMI Cobb, based in Marietta, also operates a Mental Health Drop-In Center at First Presbyterian Church, 189 Church St., which opened June 25.
The registration page does not list a specific venue for the Oct. 28 sessions or a registration deadline. To sign up or learn more, contact Neill Blake at NAMI Cobb through the organization's registration page.
What to know
- What: NAMI Family-to-Family, a free eight-session education course
- Who it's for: Family, friends and significant others of adults with mental health conditions
- Starts: Wednesday, Oct. 28
- Cost: Free
- Register: Contact Neill Blake at NAMI Cobb
