NAMI California Logo

Message from CEO Jessica Cruz
Recent policy wins for mental health in California remind us about how important it is for us to vote. When we elect leaders committed to improving mental health support and services for all Californians, we can achieve the change we need.

Pictured here, some staff members who voted early. Join us in working to get out the vote in these last few days before the election; our guide has information on why and how and tips for voting safely to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
EVENTS AND TRAININGS
The Family/Peer Support Specialist (FPSS) Webinar Training Program Training
Sign up for our Winter 2021 Family/Peer Specialist Training Program webinar training. If you're an individual with lived experience with a mental health condition -- as a peer, family member, or both -- you can apply to attend our virtual training, which provides a pathway to employment/volunteer work within the behavioral health field.
NAMI Signature State Trainings
We are recruiting for state online trainings for those interesting in becoming NAMI volunteer leaders -- to teach classes and facilitate support groups.
 
  • Family Support Group Facilitator Training: November 05, 2020, hosted by Sonoma County
  • Peer-to-Peer Teacher Training: November 14, 2020, hosted by Merced County
  • Family-to-Family Teacher Training: December 10, 2020, hosted by Sonoma County
  • Family Support Group Facilitator Training: January 22, 2021, hosted by Inland Valley
RESOURCES
Mental Health Support for Veterans and Military Service Members and Families
Those who are serving, who have served, and their families face unique stressors and need mental health information and treatment tailored to their needs.
For National Native American Heritage Month each November, we celebrate the diverse and rich culture, history, and traditions of California’s first people. We also provide information on mental health impacts and support for California’s Native American communities.


We're also inviting Native American community members to share their experiences by submitting comments or stories for consideration.
Pandemic Resources: We're keeping our pandemic resource guides updated with new information, including our school guide to help students and parents and mental health impacts and support.

Help for the Holidays: We have updated our holiday guide to maintaining mental health to reflect the impacts of the pandemic.
COMMUNITY VOICES
Our new 30-second survey: Since the pandemic started, what have been pros and cons in terms of accessing behavioral health care?
Has it been easier or more difficult to find the mental health help you need for yourself or a family member? If you or a loved one faced a crisis during the pandemic, were you able to receive the care needed? What has been your experience with telehealth? How have online support groups or classes been for you or a family member? Your feedback will help us work to make sure all Californias get the support and services they need!
During our annual conference a few weeks ago, we asked attendees about the self-care practices they count on to cope and maintain mental wellness. We received great tips!

If you didn't participate in the conference poll, you can still answer on our website. We will be sharing suggestions in a self-care guide soon.

Behind the Scenes with NAMI CA
We had more than 1600 attendees at our annual conference! Special thanks to Bethany Thrasher of Huntington Beach for submitting the most-liked image and Keisha Dixon of Antelope Valley for being the most active attendee on our community board.
In our first virtual Mental Health 101 training this month, we guided 26 participants who identified as peers and family members who inspired us with their stories and commitment to help others.
We co-facilitated a Latinx bilingual listening session with the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission (MHSOAC).
Support for NAMI California
There are many ways you can be involved in our efforts to improve mental health care and service for all Californians. Support advocacy efforts, find out about volunteer opportunities, share your insights and stories, apply to be on NAMI California's Board, and more.
During these difficult times, support from our community is more appreciated than ever. Renewing your membership, getting a membership for a loved one, or making a donation goes a long way. As a nonprofit organization, every dollar donated to us funds our vital work to help our communities! 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!
‌