ST. GEORGE — Two free mental health education programs are slated to begin Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Washington County Public Library in St. George.

Sponsored by the Southwest Utah affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness – or NAMI – the fall session of classes are geared toward both those suffering from mental illnesses and their family members.

As previously reported, NAMI has been committed to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illnesses through education, support, and advocacy since 1977. The organization’s support and public education efforts are focused on educating communities about mental illnesses, offering resources to those in need and creating awareness, which promotes a promise of recovery to those affected.

The two programs being offered by NAMI-Southwest Utah this fall are the “Peer-to-Peer” program and the “Family-to-Family” program. Each program offers 12 sessions, running every Thursday night through the end of December and featuring classes, support groups and guest speakers.

For a complete schedule, click here.

The Peer-to-Peer program is geared toward adults with a mental illness who are looking to better understand their condition and journey toward recovery. The classes are taught by trained individuals who have also “been there.” Classes include presentations, discussion and interactive exercises.

The Family-to-Family program provides support and understanding of mental illnesses to family members in an effort to help them maintain their own mental well-being, as well as that of their struggling family member. Much like the Peer-to-Peer program, classes are taught by trained volunteers who understand what it’s like to have a loved one who is struggling from a mental illness.

Everything that is said or occurs in both classes will remain confidential, and even though information and resources will be offered, NAMI does not recommend specific medical therapies or treatment approaches. These classes are primarily about support and understanding. It is this understanding that many are seeking in their struggles, NAMI Southwest Utah program director Pam Connors has said.

Course reservations are not mandatory; however, to ensure that all attendees are provided course materials, including class notebooks, reservations are preferred. For additional information, contact program director Pam Connors at [email protected] or call 541-331-0711.

Event details:

• What: Courses provided by NAMI-Southwest Utah.
• When: Every Thursdays, Sept. 8 through Dec. 29 | 5:45-7:45 p.m. | full schedule.
• Where: Washington County Public Library, 88 W. 100 S., St. George.
• Cost: Free, reservations recommended.
• For additional information, contact program director Pam Connors via [email protected] or call 541-331-0711.

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