National Alliance on Mental Illness hosts fundraiser, crisis planning workshop, support groups
In 1990, the U.S. Congress established the first full week of October as Mental Illness Awareness Week in recognition of efforts by the National Alliance on Mental Illness to raise awareness of mental illness.
Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. However, mental illness affects everyone directly or indirectly through family, friends or coworkers. Despite the prevalence of mental illness, stigma and misunderstanding are also, unfortunately, widespread.
That is why each year, during the first week of October, NAMI and participants across the country raise awareness of mental illness. Each year, we educate the public, fight stigma and provide support. And each year, our movement grows stronger.
Mental health conditions are common and they are treatable. One in five Americans are affected by mental health conditions; however, less than half receive treatment. The social stigma is the leading cause for reluctance to seek help. Stigma shames people into silence, and in some cases it takes lives.
But there’s good news. Stigma is 100-percent curable. Compassion, empathy and understanding are the antidote. Your voice can help spread the cure. Join your local affiliate, NAMI – Heart of the Rockies, and help us spread the word through the many awareness, support and advocacy activities that are essential to combat stigma and promote early intervention. Together we can cure stigma and save lives.
There will be a house concert fundraiser Saturday, Oct. 6, to raise awareness about NAMI – Heart of the Rockies’ programs and mission. The concert is full, but a tax-deductible donation can be sent to NAMI – Heart of the Rockies, P.O. Box 332, Salida, CO 81201.
NAMI – Heart of the Rockies will offer a free Mental Health Crisis Planning Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, at the Salida United Methodist Church. In this two-hour workshop, participants will learn what causes a crisis, internal and external triggers, how to recognize signs of a crisis, de-escalation techniques, the role of county crisis teams, when to call 911, and what to expect when going to the emergency room or hospital.
Two support groups are offered monthly on the third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Salida United Methodist Church. The Family Support Group is for family members of someone living with a mental illness, and the Connection Support Group is for adults living with a mental health condition themselves. Both support groups are free and confidential and led by experienced NAMI-trained facilitators.
For more information or to register for the workshop, email info.namihotr@gmail.com or call 970-823-4751.
submitted by NAMI – Heart of the Rockies
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