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What is NAMI Tennessee?
NAMI Tennessee is a volunteer (grassroots), non-profit, self-help
organization composed of families and friends of persons who have mental
illness and consumers of mental health services.
What are NAMI Tennessee's Goals?
NAMI Tennessee helps families develop the understanding, skills,
and strength they need to cope with mental illness. NAMI Tennessee
advocates to improve and expand services and facilities, public and private,
including research, treatment, rehabilitation, and community support programs
for persons who have mental illness. NAMI Tennessee finds ways to
bring families and providers closer together by sharing insights and techniques
beneficial to both.
Who belongs to NAMI Tennessee?
Relatives, consumers, friends, and professionals. NAMI Tennessee
welcomes consumers and relatives of individuals of all ages who have mental
illness. Anyone interested in furthering NAMI Tennessee's goals is
encouraged to join.
What does NAMI Tennessee do to reach its goals?
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Sponsors public meetings featuring programs on research, treatment,
housing, legislation, rehabilitation, and coping skills.
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Publishes newsletters thet keep NAMI Tennessee members informed about
NAMI Tennessee's activities, new developments in the treatment of mental
illness, and the status of services in our local area.
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Trains volunteer family members to provide free education and support
to other family members. Journey
of Hope courses provide practical information about
how to cope with mental illness.
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Recommends pertinent resources: books, tapes, newspaper articles,
research publications, magazines.
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Advocates against discrimination to combat the stigma of mental illness.
Medical evidence clearly shows that mental illnesses are brain disorders
with biological components.
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Monitors federal, state, and local legislative and government agencies
that determine budgets and policies for programs for persons who have mental
illness.
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Influences public policy by providing family representation on many
boards, committees, and task forces dealing with mental illness.
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Provides speakers for organizations wanting to learn more about mental
illness.
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A call to NAMI Tennessee provides families with information and referrals
to affiliate groups (families) who can give support.
How can I help?
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If you are in the news or entertainment media, check out the facts
about mental illness and avoid perpetuating myths.
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If you are an employer, hire persons who have mental illness.
For private employers, there can be tax advantages.
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If you are a homeowner, welcome a group home in your neighborhood.
People who have mental illness can make good neighbors.
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If you have a family member with mental illness, join NAMI Tennessee
for education and support.
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If you are a caring citizen, you can volunteer for several non-profit
programs.
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As a taxpayer, support funds for research on mental illness
and good community services for people who have mental illness.
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Tell others about NAMI Tennessee.
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Join one of the local affiliates in your area.
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