Here are some ways to support those who have a mental health issue.
RESOURCES
Find out more about support groups and programs offered by NAMI-NYC, all available free of charge.
EDUCATION
Learn more about mental health issues and how to manage them.
Call our Helpline: 212-684-3264
#IWillListen Resources for Mental Health
Our mission is to tear down myths and misconceptions about mental illness.
We need to support a world free of stigma. And we need to make an impact on each and every person touched by mental illness. As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I’m often asked how each one of us can get involved in this vital task. The answer is always the same.
We need to start by simply listening.
– Michael Birnbaum, MD
Resources
NAMI-NYC programs and services connect people with others who live with similar challenges. Our support groups, classes, and phone-based services offer creative and practical solutions to specific problems or concerns – and all available free of charge. Our trained volunteers have real-life experiences with mental illness, and strive for an environment of mutual respect and support.
Read more about how NAMI-NYC can support you.
Education
On average, it takes 2 years to properly diagnose a mental health issue. Many people delay seeking treatment for mental illness due to the stigma associated with mental health. But with the right treatment, it can be managed as well as any physical disease. Learn more about mental illness…
What is mental illness?
Mental illnesses are medical conditions that disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning. Just as diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas, mental illnesses are medical conditions that often result in a diminished capacity for coping with the ordinary demands of life.
What are the different types of mental illness?
Serious mental illnesses include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder. The good news about mental illness is that recovery is possible.
Who is affected by mental illness?
Mental illnesses can affect persons of any age, race, religion, or income. Mental illnesses are not the result of personal weakness, lack of character, or poor upbringing. Mental illnesses are treatable. Most people diagnosed with a serious mental illness can experience relief from their symptoms by actively participating in an individual treatment plan.
How can you treat a mental illness?
In addition to medication treatment, psychosocial treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, peer support groups, and other community services can also be components of a treatment plan and assist with recovery. The availability of transportation, diet, exercise, sleep, friends, and meaningful paid or volunteer activities contribute to overall health and wellness, including mental illness recovery.