I am the mother of an adult son who has survived and triumphed over a challenging and “incurable” mental illness. Today he lives a normal, full, productive and happy life. I am immensely grateful for his hard-won victory and hope to inspire others who have family members who are still suffering about how you can help.

My contribution to my son’s recovery would not have been possible without the education, resources, and support I received by taking the N.A.M.I. family-to-family free course. Participants credit this class with saving their loved ones’ (and their own) lives. Because of the complex nature of these illnesses and the profound misunderstanding (and stigma) surrounding them, it is not enough to genuinely care, to have means, or to be intelligent. The real education, that can only be offered by insiders, is not only empowering, but a clear wake-up call that will define your mission and equip you with the tools necessary to succeed.

The N.A.M.I. family-to-family education program happens all over the U.S, but only once a year on Martha’s Vineyard. Beginning Jan. 12, 2017, 10 to 20 family members of loved ones suffering from mental illness will meet once a week for 12 weeks, in a confidential and organized classroom, led by two trained teachers. You will be given powerful insight to understand, communicate with and support your loved ones. You will receive cutting-edge information about everything from medication to crisis handling. And you will have the resource of an informed and experienced network of peers and professionals to turn to. Most importantly, you will realize you are not alone — that you belong to a huge community and vast network of others like yourself in every stage of crisis and recovery. After the first few classes, I was so relieved and energized that I regretted waiting three years to join the class. Don’t wait. There is hope.

Megan Grennan

Aquinnah