To wrap up this 2007 Convention blog entry, I’d like to talk about three of NAMI’s most successful and popular ongoing programs hosted by local affiliates throughout the year:
In Our Own Voice is a presentation led by two peers who are in recovery. The 11-minute video features people living with mental illnesses, all of who have gone on to have successful lives. The presenters stop the tape after each of the five segments, and talk about their own experiences with dark days, acceptance, treatment, coping skills and successes, hopes and dreams. IOOV rounds out with a spirited Q&A, and audience members often linger afterwards to talk individually with the hosts.
Peer-to-Peer is a nine-week experiential education course taught by mentors. It offers anyone who experiences mental illness the opportunity for growth and self-awareness. Each two-hour session uses a combination of lecture, interactive exercises and structured group processes. The diversity of experience among participants allows for a lively dynamic. Two of the most important features of the “recovery toolkit” are the advance directive and the relapse prevention plan. A Spanish version will be available shortly.
Family-to-Family is led by a family member whose loved one suffers from a serious and persistent mental illness. Attendees are, you guessed it, mothers or fathers, or brothers or sisters, or other family members. The 12-week educational course offers practical solutions for interacting with the affected person, geared to sensitivity and conflict resolution. Week ten features people with diagnoses who give insight into what it’s like to experience this devastating trauma firsthand.
For more info, call the toll-free NAMI help line at (800) 950-6264.
With so much offered for everyone at the convention, you’ll come away enlightened, and energized to put the information into real-life use. You’ll meet allies and advocates who bring to the table their experiences and wisdom, and maybe even make a friend.
I hope to see you in Orlando next year!
