April 2020

Message from CEO Jessica Cruz Hear a message from our CEO, Jessica Cruz, in a short video she filmed for our members about this difficult and uncertain time. She shares how NAMI can -- and will -- continue to be a support for all of us in the Team NAMI community, and how we are continuing to work behind the scenes to make sure that all our voices are heard at the state level. Watch now .

Support During the COVID-19 Pandemic We are continuing to expand our online resources and guides to help you through the COVID-19 crisis , with information and guidance from trusted sources. Family Guide to Help Parents and Children During the Crisis Ways to Stay Connected While We are Physically Distancing Mental Health Impacts and Support During COVID-19

Virtual Support from Local Affiliates We are thrilled to report that many of our local affiliates are already offering virtual support with online support groups and classes. Contact your local NAMI California affiliate to find out about ways we are still able to support one another

Events

Rescheduled Annual Conference We have new dates for our NAMI California annual conference: October 12 and 13 in Sacramento! Application for Exhibitors Early-Bird Conference Registration

Community Engagement and Outreach

Family & Peer Support Specialist Training Course

Peers and family members are provided with behavioral health educational training, one-on-one career counseling, and support to volunteer or work in the behavioral health field.  Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 to 8:30 pm, starting on June 9; find out more and register online

Annual Mental Health Survey Help us improve mental health care in California by taking our annual survey ! This is your chance to share your experiences on accessing mental health care and make suggestions for what needs to improve. The surveys are available in English, Spanish, Chinese (simplified), and Arabic. Diverse Communities Survey Families Survey

Comfort at Home Challenge We have been inspired by seeing community members share activities and practices that are helping them cope while staying home to protect the public health. Let’s inspire one another with what we’re doing to stay comforted at home! Join our challenge by sharing photos on social media that show what you and your family are doing to take care of your well-being, de-stress, or just unplug from the news for a while. Tag us (@namicalifornia) and use #TeamNAMIComfortAtHome -- or send them privately through our website.

News and Resources

Local Affiliates As mentioned above, our local NAMI California affiliates are rising to the challenge during this difficult time so that we can continue to serve our communities, with virtual services and more... NAMI San Mateo is seeking an Executive Director.

Online Resources Get advice on practicing self-care ; managing stress ; getting good sleep , suicide prevention , and more.

Support for NAMI California

In addition to becoming a member, did you know you can support NAMI California by shopping on Amazon or checking a box when you file your taxes ? Find out about all the ways you can give to NAMI California. Thank you!

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