NAMI - Mental Health Support
National Alliance on Mental Illness — Free support, education, and advocacy. Call 1-800-950-NAMI or find your local chapter for programs and resources.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization, founded in 1979. NAMI provides free support, education, and advocacy for millions of Americans affected by mental health conditions, including autism.
About NAMI
NAMI provides advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.
Mission: NAMI's mission is to provide advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.
Founded in 1979, NAMI has become the nation's voice on mental health.
Core Services
NAMI offers a variety of free programs and services:
NAMI HelpLine
Free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with mental health conditions, their family members and caregivers, mental health providers and the public.
Phone: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Text: Text 'NAMI' to 741741
Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. ET
Features:
- Trained volunteers with lived experience
- Information about mental health conditions
- Resource referrals in your area
- Support and understanding
- Available in English and Spanish
NAMI Peer-to-Peer
Free, 8-session educational program for adults with mental health conditions who are looking to better understand themselves and their recovery.
Format: 8 weekly sessions, 2 hours each
In-person and online options available
Topics Covered:
- Understanding mental health conditions
- Recovery and wellness strategies
- Building support systems
- Communication skills
- Managing symptoms
- Self-advocacy
NAMI Family-to-Family
Free, 8-week education program for family, partners and friends of individuals living with mental health conditions.
Format: 8 weekly sessions, 2.5 hours each
In-person and online options available
Topics Covered:
- Understanding diagnoses and treatments
- Communication strategies
- Crisis management
- Self-care for caregivers
- Problem-solving skills
- Navigating the mental health system
NAMI Connection
Free, peer-led support group for adults living with mental health conditions.
Format: Weekly meetings, 90 minutes
In-person and online groups available
Features:
- Peer-led by people with lived experience
- Safe, confidential environment
- Share experiences and coping strategies
- Build supportive relationships
- Available nationwide
NAMI Family Support Group
Free, peer-led support group for family members, caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with mental health conditions.
Format: Monthly meetings, 90 minutes
Features:
- Led by trained family members
- Share experiences and learn from others
- Gain support and understanding
- Learn coping strategies
- Connect with local resources
NAMI Basics
Free, 6-session education program for parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with mental health conditions.
Format: 6 weekly sessions, 2.5 hours each
Topics Covered:
- Understanding childhood mental health conditions
- Navigating school systems and IEPs
- Treatment options for youth
- Family communication strategies
- Advocacy for your child
- Self-care for parents
NAMI Information & Resources
Access comprehensive mental health information and tools:
Mental Health Conditions
Detailed information about mental health conditions, symptoms, and treatments
Visit Resource →Crisis Resources
Immediate help and crisis planning resources
Find Your Local NAMI
NAMI has affiliates in every state and over 600 local affiliates across the country.
NAMI Affiliate Finder
Search for NAMI programs and support groups in your area by entering your ZIP code
Find Your Local NAMI →What Local NAMI Affiliates Offer
In-Person Support Groups
Regular meetings in your community
Local Education Programs
NAMI programs taught by trained volunteers in your area
Community Events
Mental health awareness activities, NAMIWalks, and educational events
Local Resource Connections
Information about mental health services and providers in your community
Volunteer Opportunities
Ways to give back and support others in your community
Advocacy
Local and state-level advocacy for mental health policies
Get Involved with NAMI
There are many ways to support NAMI's mission:
- →Attend a support group or education program
- →Volunteer with your local NAMI chapter
- →Participate in NAMIWalks fundraising events
- →Share your story to reduce stigma
- →Advocate for mental health policies
- →Donate to support NAMI's programs
- →Follow NAMI on social media to stay informed
Contact NAMI
HelpLine
1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Text Line
Text 'NAMI' to 741741
Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. ET
This page provides information about NAMI and its services. For the most current information, please visit NAMI.org. If you're in crisis, call 988 or visit your nearest emergency room.