SUPPORT + EDUCATION
Family and Caregivers
When a friend or family member develops a mental health condition, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Family members and caregivers often play a large role in helping and supporting the millions of people in the U.S. who experience mental health conditions each year. Many family members and caregivers experience the same thoughts and questions you might be having now.
You may be trying to help a family member who doesn’t have access to care or doesn’t want help. Or you may want to learn how to support and encourage someone who has been hospitalized or experienced a similar mental health crisis.
Support Groups & Classes
Family Support Group
NAMI Family Support Group is a peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.
Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others, and friends of people living with mental illness. Research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to an individual living with a mental health condition. NAMI Family-to-Family is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussion, and interactive exercises.
Basics is a free, 6-week education program. It is meant for parents and family caregivers of children and teens who are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or who have already been diagnosed. Additionally, NAMI Basics is offered in a group setting, meaning you can connect with other people face-to-face. During the six weeks, you’ll learn the facts about mental health conditions and how best to support your child at home, at school, and when they’re getting medical care. Last year, 99% of participants told us they would recommend the program to other parents. Additionally, the course is taught by a trained team with lived experience. They know what you’re going through because they’ve been there, too.
Bases y Fundamentos de NAMI
Bases y Fundamentos es un programa de educacióninformativa, para padres e otros quienes cuidan a niños o adolecentes que viven con problemas de salud mental. El curso se dirige por padres entrenados para dar las clases quienes niños desarrollaron síntomas de salud mental antes de los 18 años de edad. El curso consiste de seis clases, cada clase se imparte en 2 horas.
NAMI Helplines - We are here for you.
NAMI Greater Los Angeles County
Call 213-386-3615, press 7
Sunday–Saturday
24 hours a day
NAMI Glendale
Call or text 213-797-0494
Sunday–Saturday
24 hours a day
NAMI San Fernando Valley
Call 818-994-6747
Sunday–Saturday
24 hours a day
NAMI Pomona Valley
Call 909-399-0305
Sunday–Saturday
9 a.m.–9 p.m.
NAMI San Gabriel Valley
Call 626-577-6697
Monday–Saturday
9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Call 310-533-0705