The Family-To-Family Educational Program, a 12-week program for loved ones, family and friends of individuals who have a mental illness, will start Thursday, Feb. 4, at 7 p.m. in Naugatuck. This course is taught by trained family members and is offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. All instruction and course materials are free to class participants.
Over 300,000 people in the United States, Canada and Mexico have completed this course. If you have a loved one who has a mental illness, this program may be helpful. Take this opportunity to bring this unique evidence-based course into your life and the life of your family. This is what graduates have said:
“Before I took the course, I felt so alone and overwhelmed. I have learned very valuable information, met others who are going through the same thing I am going through and have learned about many resources that are available that I never knew existed.”
“Had I taken this class 20 years ago, it may have changed the course of my life and family.”
“The class has given me more information than nine counselors and one shrink. It is a wonderful, amazing class full of information that has helped me to be able to look at my son differently. He says the course has really helped him, too, because of the way I have changed how I relate to him.”
The class covers the following topics:
- Current information about mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders
- Basics about brain biology and the causes of brain disorders
- Special workshops for problem solving, listening and communication skills
- Strategies for handling crises and relapse
- Caregiver coping skills for stress and emotional overload
- Guidance to locate supports and services in the community
- Information on advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services
For more information or to register, call Terrilynn at 203-881-2707.
