| In This Issue |
| Who We Are |
NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation's foremost grassroots mental health organization. We are dedicated to improving the lives of people living with serious brain disorders that cause mental illness and to improving the lives of their families. Founded in 1979, NAMI is active in all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico with over 1100 local chapters across the country. Our mission is one of education, support, self help, advocacy and research.
NAMI Barrington Area is a new NAMI chapter located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. We are a dedicated group of people serving Barrington and nearby suburbs hoping to help you or someone you love on the path to recovery from mental illness. Call us at 847-496-1415.
About NAMI Barrington area chapter
|
|
|
|
|
Register Now - Family to Family Classes It's time to register for Family to Family, a series of 12 weekly classes structured to help you understand and support individuals with mental disorders while maintaining your own well being. "This course is a wonderful experience," said one student. "It balances basic education and skills-training with emotional support, self care and empowerment."
A recent study by the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that the class significantly improves coping with mental illness, offering concrete, practical benefits to help family members, partners and friends play a critical role in the treatment and recovery of loved ones.
There is no cost to participate in a Family to Family class, you don't need to be a NAMI member, and it doesn't matter if you live in a particular chapter's area to attend a class. Many NAMI chapters across the country are starting classes in August and September. Here are a few local choices:
Northwest Community Hospital. Will begin Wednesday, September 7 from 6-9 p.m. Call Maryrose at NAMI Barrington Area at 847-496-1415 for information or to register.
Barrington. The starting date is still to be confirmed, but we need you to call if you might like to attend. Evenings 6-9p.m. Call Maryrose at 847-496-1415 for information.
Northfield. Begins Tuesday, September 6, 7 - 9:30 p.m. at New Trier Northfield High School. Call the NAMI CCNS office at 847-716-2252 for information or to register.
Park Ridge. Begins Wednesday, September 14, 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church. Call the NAMI CCNS office at 847-716-2252 for information or to register.
Don't live near any of these classes? Check NAMI Illinois or NAMI National for your local chapter. Call and they will help you find a class nearby.
|
|
NAMI Basics Classes Starting
Have a child under 13 with symptoms of mental illness? NAMI CCNS is starting a NAMI Basics class October 11 at New Trier Northfield (6:30 to 9 p.m.). Call 847-716-2252 for information or to register.
NAMI DKK will begin a NAMI Basics class in Aurora September 19 at 9 a.m. Email Carol at caklopp@sbcglobal.net
You're in a tough situation, but help is available from people who have been through it.
|
|
Last Chance to Join NAMI Walk
by Joseph M. Jason
Sign up now to help support our efforts in spreading mental health awareness, eliminating stigma, and raising funds to support NAMI of Greater Chicago, NAMI National, and our own Barrington Area NAMI affiliate.
The proceeds from the walk allow us to continue offering free programs and services to those in need and can give us the opportunity to expand our programs and outreach.
To date, we have 12 walkers and have raised almost $3,000.
There is still time to join us or sponsor us. Thanks to the following walkers so far:
Gina Badal, Hugh Brady, Lora Fox, Lorna Gladstone, Nancy Harju, Toni Hoy, Joseph Jason, Nancy Jason, Maryann Mahlman, Daniel Mickey, Mandy Romero , Betty Smith and thanks to the generous sponsors.
Please join us or sponsor one of us.
|
|
September Events
Thursday, September 1, 12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m. The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health hosts Sharing Our Story of Hope. These educational calls are offered to all parents in Illinois who have a child with an emotional and/or behavioral concern. The calls focus on giving parents information they need to advocate for and support their children. Toll free: (800) 260-0712 Participant Access Code: 120964. For questions, please call (618) 838-9382.
Beginning Tuesday, September 6, 7 - 9:30 p.m. Family to Familyat New Trier Northfield High School. Call the NAMI CCNS office at 847-716-2252 for information or to register.
Beginning Wednesday, September 7, 6-9 p.m. Family to Familyat Northwest Community Hospital. No charge but registration is required. Call Maryrose at NAMI Barrington Area at 847-496-1415 .
Starting date to be confirmed. Family to Family in Barrington. Evenings 6-9p.m. Call Maryrose at 847-496-1415 for information.
Wednesday, September 7, 7-8:30 p.m. The NAMI Criminal Justice Action Committee, part of NAMI BA, meets the first Wednesday of every month, and we'd love to have your help and support. We meet at the Alexian Center for Mental Health, 3350 Salt Creek Lane-Suite #114, Arlington Heights. For more information, email Joseph M. Jason or phone him at (847) 537-3009. Help us make a difference.
Wednesday, September 10. The Legal Representation for People with Mental Illness committee of NAMI NW Suburban will meet and welcome new members. Our CIT investigative program is progressing and we welcome any and all who would care to join us. Contact: Gertie Rodig 847-253-3829
Sunday, September 11 at 2pm. The Arlington Heights Young Adults Depression Bipolar Support Alliance will host their Snack & Yack at the Arlington Heights Corner Bakery. Parents are invited to meet at the same time and place, but at different tables. Ask servers for Leah's tables and contact her in advance for further info at mrsn@comcast.net or 847-541-7754. Bring some money for a snack.
Tuesday, September 13,2-3:30 p.m. the SAMSA SOAR Technical Assistance Center presents a free webinarUsing SOAR in the Social Security Appeals Process (mainly for people who are homeless and with mental illness. Register here.
Beginning Wednesday, September 14, 7 - 9:30 p.m. Family to Familyat Messiah Lutheran Church, Park Ridge. Call the NAMI CCNS office at 847-716-2252 for information or to register.
Sunday, September 18, 11a.m. sign-in, noon step off. NAMI Walks Chicago in Grant Park. Help your local NAMI chapter, NAMI Illinois and NAMI National by walking or supporting a walker. Visit the NAMI Barrington Area team page to join or pledge your support!
Sunday, September 18. NAMI CCNS Sundays at One social group (for adults 20 and up) will meet at the Skokie Sculpture Park for a free tour. Call Chris Jordan at 847-220-0199 for information.
Sunday, September 18, 2:00p.m. The Open Door Clinic hosts a showing of the Academy Award winning film The Miracle Worker followed by an interview with Patty Duke. Interviewed by the Daily Herald critic Dan Gire, Patty will be discussing some about living with Bi Polar and Manic Depression. At the Aracada Theater, 105 East Main Street, St. Charles. General admission tickets are $15, VIP tickets are $55 and are available for purchase online. All proceeds to benefit the Open Door Clinic.
Beginning on Saturday, September 19 and continuing thru October 22, 9:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. NAMI DKK hosts NAMI Basics. NAMI Basics is the new signature education program for parents and other caregivers of children and adolescents living with mental illnesses. The NAMI Basics course is taught by trained teachers who are the parent or other caregivers of individuals who developed the symptoms of mental illness prior to the age of 13 years. The class meets at the Buckley Room at Provena Mercy Medical Center, 1325 N. Highland Ave, Aurora. All instruction materials are FREE to participants. Registration required, please call Karen at (630) 664-9103 or NAMI DKK office at (630) 896-6264.
Wednesday, September 21, 7:00p.m. NAMI Barrington Area board meeting in the Kildeer Village Hall, 21911 Quentin Road, Kildeer. Drop in and learn what's going on in the chapter!
Saturday, September 24 at 2pm. The Arlington Heights Young Adults Depression Bipolar Support Alliance will meet for an activity. (Group members are 17-24.) Parents will meet, too, at that time. For further info contact Leah at mrsn@comcast.net or 847-541-7754.
Sunday, September 25, Sunday, 1 p.m. NAMI NW Suburban Fun at One Recreation Group (ages 20+) will meet at Goebbert's Pumpkin Farm for their Fall Fest.Please RSVP by contacting Dawn at 847-471-4888 or by email.
|
|
October Events
Sunday, October 2 at 2pm. The Arlington Heights Young Adults Depression Bipolar Support Alliance will host their Snack & Yack at the Arlington Heights Corner Bakery. Parents are invited to meet at the same time and place, but at different tables. Ask servers for Leah's tables and contact her in advance for further info at mrsn@comcast.net or 847-541-7754. Bring some money for a snack.
Saturday, October 1, 9:00a.m. NAMI DKK 5K Run for Mental Health. Run thru downtown Batavia and along the Fox River to benefit NAMI DKK. $25 registration fee. Register online or on site at 7:00a.m. day of race. Email INFO@NAMI5K.COM with any questions.
Wednesday, October 5, 6:30 p.m. NAMI NW Suburban Annual Pizza Fundraiser at Lou Malnati's in Buffalo Grove. There will be all the pizza and salad you can eat, as well as mostaccioli and beverages plus loads of raffle prizes. Dinner tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children under 12. RSVP 847-899-0195 or email.
Beginning on Saturday, October 11 and continuing thru November 15, 6:30p.m. - 9:00p.m. NAMI CCNS hosts NAMI Basics. NAMI Basics is the new signature education program for parents and other caregivers of children and adolescents living with mental illnesses. The NAMI Basics course is taught by trained teachers who are the parent or other caregivers of individuals who developed the symptoms of mental illness prior to the age of 13 years. The class meets at New Trier Northfield High School, 7 Happ Road, Northfield. All instruction materials are FREE to participants. Registration required, please call 847-716-2252.
Thursday, October 6, 12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m. The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health hosts Advocating For A Lifetime. These educational calls are offered to all parents in Illinois who have a child with an emotional and/or behavioral concern. The calls focus on giving parents information they need to advocate for and support their children. Toll free: (800) 260-0712 Participant Access Code: 120964. For questions, please call (618) 838-9382.
Wednesday, October 19, 7:00p.m. NAMI Barrington Area board meeting in the Kildeer Village Hall, 21911 Quentin Road, Kildeer. Drop in and learn what's going on in the chapter!
Sunday, October 23, 8:00a.m. NAMI CCNS Fundraising 5K Walk toincrease public awareness about mental illness. At Blue Star Memorial Woods, Glenview. For additional information on becoming a walker or a sponsor, please get in touch with Patricia Caine at pcaine@rdhs.org or namiccns.walk@gmail.com.
|
Area Support Groups
You may find that a support group can be very helpful, especially if you, a partner, friend or family member is going through a crisis. A very large number of groups meet in our area for consumers as well as family members and friends.
Each month, we publish a list of support groups that you can attend, generally at no charge and with no need to make a reservation. You can access that list in a printable format here.
We would also like to invite you to the groups hosted by our own chapter, NAMI Barrington Area. This month we will offer a NAMI Connection group for consumers and a family support group every Thursday at Northwest Community Hospital at 7 p.m. (call Nora at 847-899- -6264 for more information), a NAMI PACT group for parents, the first and third Friday of the month (although we won't meet Sept 2), also at Northwest Community (call Toni at 847-804-2088 weeknights), and a new family support group in Lake Villa the third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m., at the Lake Villa Assessor's Office, 37850 North Route 59. Email tonihoy@comcast.net or helmick6@comcast.net for information. |
|
Learning to Cope With Serious Mental Illness
A story about recovery from the New York Times
In recent years, researchers have begun talking about mental heath care in the same way addiction specialists speak of addiction recovery-a lifelong journey of self-treatment and discipline.
It's a difficult journey, yet people are traveling it and succeeding. Here's an interesting story about one man's journey as reported in the New York Times August 6.
Read the article.
|
|
DartHeart
by Toni Hoy
School's in! According to Mental Health America, mental health conditions are most common between the ages of 18-24. Twenty-seven percent of young adults have mental illness, with the most common diagnoses of anxiety and depression.
Thanks to a group of students from Dartmouth College, trauma survivors now have a built-in peer support system right on campus for students affected by severe anxiety disorders caused by trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Dartmouth College was the first college to start a peer support group for students affected by PTSD, which has been so successful that Brown University started a sister organization.
DartHeart was founded in March 2008 by a group of Dartmouth College student survivors. This nonprofit organization formed out of a desire to be the missing link in the chain of support currently given to survivors of trauma. Students and alumni survivors of trauma continue to run the program, as they join and develop a peer support network. In April 2009, the IRS approved DartHeart as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization.
DartHeart's recovery model is built upon the importance of COMMUNICATION between survivors, families, friends and communities. Open dialogue, fellowship, shared experience and communication between survivors and their community is vital to providing hope, strength and ultimately recovery for all survivors.
DartHeart recognizes that not all survivors are ready or willing to meet in person or small groups for support and affirmation. For this reason, DartHeart also provides a medium for safe and anonymous virtual communication for survivors to communicate with each other through blogging, making artwork, providing book reviews and suggestions, reading about other survivors' experiences and participating in large group activities.
Check out their website, email student leaders or phone (603) 397-3916 for more information on starting a DartHeart group at your college.
|
|
The Murder of a Homeless Person
From the President's Desk - by Joseph M. Jason
As President of NAMI BA, I am appalled by the murder of the homeless person in Fullerton, California. Last month's police killing of an unarmed schizophrenic homeless man in Fullerton has sparked debate about how police deal with mentally ill suspects. Kelly Thomas died after half a dozen police officers tried to subdue him at a bus depot.
Videotape shot by a witness captures the distinctive clicking sound of the Taser gun that Fullerton police used on Thomas. You can hear the 37-year-old screaming for his dad. He died five days later.
His father Ron Thomas says he's still haunted by the tape. "Obviously that just tore right through me. I hear it every day. I hear it every night. I don't sleep. That sound will be with me forever." This could have happened to our children.
It is imperative that our surrounding police forces utilize CIT. Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) are a pre-booking jail diversion program designed to improve the outcomes of police interactions with people with mental illnesses. The first CIT was established in Memphis in 1988 after the tragic shooting by a police officer of a man with a serious mental illness. This tragedy stimulated collaboration between the police, the Memphis chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness and various others to improve police training and procedures in response to mental illness. The Memphis CIT program has achieved remarkable success.
Today, the so-called "Memphis Model" has been adopted by hundreds of communities in more than 35 states. CIT addresses this need by providing officers with specialized training to respond safely, and quickly to people with serious mental illness in crisis. Officers learn to recognize the signs of psychiatric distress and how to deescalate a crisis. CIT officers learn how to link people with appropriate treatment.
I am hoping that the various police departments will participate in these endeavors.
|
|
Error Correction Needed
Legislative Alert by Hugh Brady
As the Illinois General Assembly was rushing to complete the state budget before its May 31 adjournment deadline this spring, somehow a big error in mental health funding was made. A big chunk of money - $30 million to be exact - that was supposed to be appropriated to community mental health programs was inadvertently given to another department.
This error needs to be fixed ASAP, and we need your help making it happen.
How you can help.
|
|
A Flower or a Weed?
In the Trench by Toni Hoy
Karl W. Dennis, former Executive Director of Kaleidoscope, a therapeutic foster care program and author of "Everything is Normal Until Proven Otherwise," a book about wraparound services, once attended a play in which the actor asked the audience if they'd rather be a flower or a weed. Most wanted to be flowers. The actor preferred to be a weed, as they have the traits of strength, persistence, and tenacity. And some of them are quite beautiful.
According to Karl, I raised a family of weeds...
Read the September In the Trench to learn more.
|
|
TMS for Major Depression in the News
An interesting video from MSNBC on transcranial magnetic stimulation used to treat depression.
Be cautioned, however - they make it sound like it can be widely applied, whereas it's actually appropriate only for very specific types of major depression. Still, it may be worth checking out if you are a depression sufferer.
Here's the video. Here's a Wikipedia report with much more detailed information. And here's information on TMS as offered at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health.
|
|
Governor Quinn Signs 6 Mental Health Bills
From NAMI Illinois by Hugh Brady
On August 18 I had the privilege of attending a ceremony where Governor Quinn signed six bills pertaining to mental health issues that the General Assembly had passed earlier this year.
Some of the bills were minor but others were pretty important: HB 1530 improves Illinois' mental health insurance parity laws and brings them into compliance with the new national healthcare reform law. This should result in improved benefits for people with mental illness who have employer offered group health insurance.
Learn more about each of the new laws
|
|
Video Explains What NAMI Metro-Suburban is About
NAMI Metro-Suburban (Oak Park and west suburban Cook Co.) has a wonderful video on Youtube. It talks about recovery and how this chapter helps.
Watch the video.
|
|
College Mental Health Services and Supports
A NAMI Survey
Are you or is your child a recent or current college student living with a mental health condition? NAMI wants to hear from you! Follow the appropriate link below to participate in an important NAMI survey on services and supports for college students living with mental health conditions. All responses are kept confidential. Survey closes Sept 30, 2011.
For more information, please contact Dana Markey at danac@nami.org.
|
Volunteers Needed
Do you really mean it when you say you want to help people with mental health issues?
If so, we can use your help at NAMI Barrington Area. I want to invite you to help us support and advocate for people with brain disorders, and in so doing, help yourself. Are you willing to lend a hand? It's a wonderful experience to be involved and make a difference!
There's so much we can accomplish, but only with more good people like you pitching in. Please call Maryrose at 847-496-1415.
|
Local Hospitals
With Mental Health Serivces
|
| Community Mental Health Services
|
| Please pass on this newsletter
We hope you'll pass this newsletter on to friends, family members or professionals who might get some useful information from it. Even though you don't know if your friend would need this valuable information and support, you never know who may have a co-worker or neighbor who would. (Just hit the 'forward email' button at the bottom of this page.)
|
Join NAMI
We hope you'll join NAMI and support our advocacy for the mentally ill. The cost is only $35 (adult and spouse) or $10 (for consumer). If this cost will create a financial hardship, we have a limited number of open door memberships available at a reduced fee. Please register online if possible or download our paper membership form.
If you don't wish to join right now, but you'd like to receive our free newsletter, simply use the "Join our mailing list" button in the blue column to the right.
|
Emergency Numbers
Local police/ambulance: 911
State police: 847-294-4400
Crisis team, Alexian Brothers, Hoffman Estates
(24 hour): 800-432-5005
Illinois state suicide line: 800-784-2433
Ecker Center 24-hour emergency program (Elgin) 847-888-2211
More emergency numbers
|
|
