NAMI February Presentation: Circle of Friends

The Union County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) invites area residents to join its "Circle of Friends" for a free informal evening of discussion.

We will have two separate groups in different rooms. One group will be for those who have a loved one diagnosed with a mental illness and the second group will be for those who are diagnosed with a mental illness.

For group one, those who have a loved one diagnosed with a mental illness, our panel will consist of Joyce Benz, LCSW, Director of the Intensive Family Support Services of the Mental Health Association in NJ, as moderator along with four members from the NAMI Union County Board. The panel will explore various topics affecting persons with mental illness and offer insight from their own experiences in dealing with the mental illness of their family member. Bring questions and concerns.

For group two, those who are diagnosed with a mental illness, the facilitator will be John Gesumaria, who is certified as an In Our Own Voice presenter and represents NAMI Union County at the Crisis Intervention Training program at the Union County Police Academy. This is a first for our affiliate. Our Family to Family classes have suggested we include this format for our loved ones with mental illness. We hope our members will bring their loved ones to participate in their own group.

This is an opportunity for information sharing with others who have a common interest. The format is relaxed and audience participation is welcomed. If you’d like to learn more about mental illness, please join our discussion. There is no charge. Our information and friendship are priceless - and free.

A free copy of our Resource Guide – Help in Navigating the Mental Health System in Union County, and other handouts and literature will be available to attendees. Snacks will be provided.

The program begins at 7:30p.m. at the RWJ Rahway Fitness & Wellness Center, 2120 Lamberts Mill Rd, Scotch Plains. Call 908-233-1628 or email at namiunioncounty@yahoo.com for information, or in the event of inclement weather.