Family/Friends Mental Illness Support Group

Serious and persistent mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression, are devastating not only for those who have them, but also for their families and friends. People who are afflicted with any of these conditions and not receiving treatment often act in ways that challenge or break relationships, sometimes putting themselves and others at risk as well. As a result, family members and friends experience worry, fear, confusion, shame, sadness, and a sense of loss or grief, as well as profound bewilderment about what has happened, how to respond, and what resources and services are available to the loved one and to themselves.

NAMI (the National Alliance for Mental Illness) has literally “written the book” on providing help to both those who have a mental illness and those who love them and are trying to care for them. Working in collaboration with NAMI Fox Valley, First Congregational offers a monthly Family Support Group based on the NAMI model and led by NAMI-trained facilitators who are part of our congregation. The purposes of the group are to provide a safe place for sharing our experiences and concerns with each other, to offer constructive suggestions for dealing with day-to-day and long-term challenges, and to be a source of spiritual nurture and hope at a time when hope seems most futile.

If you have a family member or friend who has a mental illness; if you’re wondering where to turn for emotional and practical support; if you need someone to listen to your concerns and struggles -- this group is designed for you. We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month from 7:00-8:30 p.m. at the church. We hope you will feel free to join us.