The Family to Family Education Program is a free, 12 session course for families of individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Membership in NAMI Maryland is not required. The curriculum focuses on three major psychiatric illnesses: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression, emphasizing the clinical treatment of these illnesses and teaching the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more effectively with the mentally ill relative. The courses are taught by trained NAMI Maryland family member volunteers in a team teaching approach.

There are two components to the program - an education element and a support group element. Together they provide maximum benefit to the family member. Families are strongly encouraged to take advantage of both parts of the program.

Education
• Information on schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression
• Handling crisis and relapse situations
• Communication techniques
• Medications
• Community services and support
• Fighting stigma

Support
• Reinforce coping skills
• Provide emotional support
• Offer practical help from other family members

Research studies indicate that 40-65% of adults with severe and persistent mental illness either reside with their families or receive primary care management from their families. The ability of family members to provide a benign, understanding and predictable environment for their ill relative is a key factor in the capacity of the ill family member to stabilize and remain in the community.

The Family to Family Education Program not only provides basic education and skill training for families who must cope with the difficulties of their ill relatives, it also gives them the practical and emotional support to sustain them in the role as primary caretakers in the community mental health system.

Please contact the NAMI Maryland office at (410)467-7100, or your local affiliate for additional information.