Tehachapi News

Family-to-Family class offered by NAMI

Mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), afflict about 20 percent of the population in some form. For every person who has one of these brain disorders, there are family members trying to cope with their loved one’s illness.

National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI)-Kern County offers a free, twelve-week course, Family-to-Family, for those with a loved one who suffers with a serious mental illness.

Family members are often bewildered by the illness and feel alone; not knowing where to turn for answers and help. Questions such as: “How can I get a diagnosis?” “What do I do if there is a crisis?” and “What are the best treatments for my loved one?” Family-to-Family helps to answer these, and other, questions. Participants will learn coping skills and communication skills as well.

The course was written by experienced family members and mental health professionals, and is taught by family members who have completed the course and are specially trained to teach the course to others.

The next class begins on Tuesday, Aug. 14 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Potluck dinner will be available each week. The classes are free but registration is required. Contact Bob or Susan Stewart, 822-3010 or tehachapisg@yahoo.com.