Mental health class offered for families of children, teens

Having a child or adolescent with a mental health disorder is traumatic for families. Navigating mood swings, destructive behavior, and school failure can cause spiraling problems that leave families at a loss on to how to cope and assist their child. NAMI El Dorado County is now offering NAMI Basics for families of children and adolescents with behavioral/mental health disorders.

NAMI Basics is a free, six-week education program for parents and family caregivers of children and teens whom are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or whom have already been diagnosed. NAMI Basics is offered in a group setting so you can connect with other people face-to-face.

Parents will learn the facts about mental health conditions and how best to support their child at home, at school and when they're getting medical care. Last year, 99 percent of participants told NAMI El Dorado County they would recommend the program to other parents. The course is taught by a trained team with lived experience; they know what participants are going through because they've been there.

The six-session program provides critical strategies for taking care of a child and learning the ropes of recovery.

What you'll gain

At NAMI Basics, parents find out they are not alone. Recovery is a journey, and there is hope. The group setting of NAMI Basics provides mutual support and shared positive impact. Participants will experience compassion and reinforcement from people who understand their situations and they can also can help others with their own experience.

NAMI Basics covers

? Managing crises, solving problems and communicating effectively

? How to take care of yourself and handle stress

? Developing the confidence and stamina to support your child with compassion

? Advocating for your child's rights at school and in health care settings

? Learning about current treatments, including evidence-based therapies, medications and side effects

? Gaining an overview of the public mental health care, school and juvenile justice systems

? Understanding the challenges and impact of mental health conditions on your entire family

Class begins Sept. 23. Call Jan at (530) 677-2676 to register.