Family to Family Course Descriptions

• The course is specifically designed for family members and close friends of individuals with brain disorders (mental illnesses).  The course is not appropriate for persons who are themselves suffering from any of these illnesses.  However, consumers in recovery who also have an immediate family member with a serious brain disorder are encouraged to attend the course.
• Classes are taught by NAMI family member volunteers who have completed a three-day, 26-hour intensive teacher training workshop.  All trained teachers have a first degree relative with a diagnosed mental illness.  They have personal knowledge and posses the understanding and empathy for what families encounter in dealing with mental illness.  
• The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Course is free and consists of a series of 12 weekly classes for families of individuals with a serious brain disorder (mental illness).
• To Register call the NAMI Office 262 524-8886.  Classes are held at the NAMI Office, 217 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 411, Waukesha.  See Upcoming Events for current class schedule.

What the Course Offers

Information about illnesses of the brain and their treatment:

• Current information about schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Up-to-date information about medications, side-effects, and problems with medication adherence
• Discussion of the biological bases of brain disorder (mental illnesses), treatment options and recovery

Coping Skills:

• Gaining empathy by understanding what a person with a serious brain disorder experiences
• Problem-solving, listening, and communication techniques
• Handling periods of crisis and relapse
• Care for the caregiver: coping with worry, stress, and overload

Advocacy:

• Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community, and better mental health services
• Advocacy for federal, state, and local policies and services