Clasess

NAMI Basics is a 6-session education program for parents, caregivers and other family who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms. This program is free to participants, 99% of whom say they would recommend the program to others. NAMI Basics is available both in person and online through NAMI Basics OnDemand.

The in-person course is taught by a trained team with lived experience raising a child with a mental health condition. They know what you’re going through because they’ve been there too.

The OnDemand program is also guided by parents and family members with lived experience but is self-paced and available 24/7. OnDemand offers the flexibility of participating in the course on your schedule. Both formats provide identical information, strategies and the opportunity to connect with other parents and caregivers.

What You’ll Gain

By participating in NAMI Basics, you’ll realize that you are not alone. You’ll find support and shared understanding—compassion, reinforcement and empathy from people who truly get your situation. And don’t forget: Your experiences may also help others in the course. Together, you will all learn that recovery is a journey, and there is hope.

What NAMI Basics covers

  • The impact mental health conditions can have on your entire family
  • Different types of mental health care professionals, available treatment options and therapies
  • An overview of the public mental health care, school and juvenile justice systems and resources to help you navigate these systems
  • How to advocate for your child’s rights at school and in health care settings
  • How to prepare for and respond to crisis situations (self-harm, suicide attempts, etc.)
  • The importance of taking care of yourself
  • Much, much more

What people are saying

“I wish I’d known about this seven years ago when the problem began. I felt safe in this class. I was able to talk about things I haven’t been comfortable expressing elsewhere.”

“Before I took the course, I felt alone and overwhelmed dealing with my daughter’s mental illness. By taking this course, I have met others who are going through the same things I am and have learned about many resources that I never knew existed.”

“I wish I’d known about this seven years ago when the problem began. I felt safe in this class. I was able to talk about things I haven’t been comfortable expressing elsewhere.”

5%

of Arkansans have serious mental Illness

100%

of donations are tax deductible

547

deaths by suicide in Arkansas in 2018

100+

calls to our helpline per month

Thank you to our partners

NAMI Helpline

(800) 844-0381

24/7 assistance available

In a crisis?

Call 988 

or go to your local emergency room immediately.