NAMI Course to Address Mental Illness

NAUGATUCK - The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Connecticut will sponsor a free educational course featuring information on a variety of mental illnesses, including major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.

Scheduled for 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays beginning February 5 in Naugatuck, the classes are geared to help family members and loved ones understand and support their ill relative and maintain their own well-being.

Classes are taught by trained volunteer family members who know what it's like to have a loved one with a serious mental illness. To date, more than 300,000 family members across the country have completed the 12-week course.

Topics include learning about feelings and facts, biology of the brain/new research, problem solving, communication skills, medication review, empathy workshop, diagnosis and dealing with critical periods, available rehabilitation services, advocacy and fighting stigma.

There is no charge for the classes but preregistration is required.

Early registration is advised as classes fill up fast.

Those seeking additional information and to register may call Terrilynn at 203-881-2707.