Basics Class (Hybrid – In-person and Zoom)

NAMI Basics is a free 6-session education program for parents, caregivers and other family who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms. This program is free to participants.

Seats are limited, so please prepare to commit to the 6 week program. 

The program is taught by trained teachers who are also the parents or family caregivers of individuals who experienced emotional or behavioral difficulties. They know what you’re going through because they’ve been there too.

• The Downtown Bend Library,  601 NW Wall St, Bend, OR 97703, Meyer Room and online via Zoom.
• July 9-August 13, 2024 on Tuesdays – 5:30 – 8 p.m. weekly for 6 weeks
• Register here 

What You’ll Gain

By participating in NAMI Basics, you’ll realize that you are not alone. You’ll find support and shared understanding—compassion, reinforcement and empathy from people who truly get your situation. And don’t forget: Your experiences may also help others in the course. Together, you will all learn that recovery is a journey, and there is hope.

NAMI Basics covers:

• The impact mental health conditions can have on your entire family
• Different types of mental health care professionals, available treatment options and therapies
• An overview of the public mental health care, school and juvenile justice systems and resources to help you navigate these systems
• How to advocate for your child’s rights at school and in health care settings
• How to prepare for and respond to crisis situations (self-harm, suicide attempts, etc.)
• The importance of taking care of yourself
• Much, much more

Participant Perspectives

“The course is inclusive of almost all aspects of family and child resources. I could have spent a lifetime getting all this information on my own. I feel supported, strong and ready to go forward.”

“This is such a great step by step program that walks parents every step of the way. It is as if you are holding their hand through it all.”

“NAMI Basics bridges the gap. It provides help that can’t be found in a doctor’s office.”