BRATTLEBORO — The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont begins a new year by educating and offering support to those with family members who live with mental illness.
This “life changing” program is offered yearly in several counties across Vermont. In addition to helping with the everyday challenges that might be expected for the friends and family of those living with mental illness, these free classes provide up-to-date research surrounding mental illness.
Classes run for eight weeks and will begin Thursday, March 19, at 6:30 p.m. Attendance in all eight classes is expected if you register.
This program aims to educate families about a variety of mental health diagnoses such as schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive- compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring mental health and addiction conditions.
The class offers up-to-date information about wellness and recovery, treatment, medications and their side-effects, mindfulness and whole health modalities, and other psychosocial options.
Not only are participants taught how to empathize with and understand the person living with mental illness, but they will also learn how to address their own needs, coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload.
Family-to-Family is registered on SAMHSA's list of evidence-based programs. Registration for the class is required and can be found at namivt.org or by calling 800-639-6480. This course is offered in part through a grant by the Vermont Department of Mental Health.