NAMI Tri-Valley provides a FREE 8-week course for family caregivers of adult (age 18 and up) individuals with severe mental illnesses that discusses the clinical treatment of these illnesses and teaches the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more effectively.  The program was developed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and is taught by trained family members of the NAMI Tri-Valley affiliate twice a year. 

All instruction and course materials are free to class participants.

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The next 8-week session will begin on Saturday, March 1st, 2025 and run one day per week, with an end date of April 26th, 2025.

There is no class on Saturday, April 19th, 2025.

The classes are on Saturdays from 9:00am - 11:30am.

Location: Conference Room at 164 N. L Street, Livermore, CA 94550

Registration for this program is required.

For Information and Registration contact:
Joyce Lombardo
Family-To-Family Education Program Coordinator

Email: jloindublin@aol.com​

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Course Content

• Current information about schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders

• Up-to-date information about medications, side effects, and strategies for medication adherence

• Current research related to the biology of brain disorders and the evidence-based, most effective treatments to promote recovery

• Gaining empathy by understanding the subjective, lived experience of a person with mental illness

• Learning in special workshops for problem solving, listening, and communication techniques

• Acquiring strategies for handling crises and relapse

• Focusing on care for the caregiver: coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload

• Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community

• Information on advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services