is affiliated with NAMI Florida and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with mental illness and supporting their families. Founded in 1979, NAMI is a national organization and has become the nation's voice on mental illness. NAMI includes affiliates in every state and more than 1,100 local communities across the country who join together to meet the NAMI mission through support, advocacy, education, and research. NAMI Pinellas County, Florida, Inc. was established in 1986. NAMI Pinellas plays an indispensable role in meeting the needs of our mental health communities and supporting all the individuals affected by mental illness. As a local mental health leader, NAMI Pinellas plays a key role in crafting a shared vision for mental health to achieve a common goal – improving lives and offering hope. For people affected by mental illness, NAMI is the most extensive national network for support, education, advocacy, and public awareness. Through our community affiliates, we deliver critical programs and services that make a difference in the lives of millions of people. Grounded in the belief that we are stronger together, NAMI focuses on bringing hope to individuals and families, shaping public policy, and fueling a national conversation on mental health. To learn more about our free and confidential mental health support services, visit our website www.nami-pinellas.org
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Mental illness affects one in five adults, striking persons from all walks of life, regardless of age, race income, religion or education. If untreated, biologically based brain disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder can profoundly disrupt a person's ability to think, feel and relate to others and their environment. NAMI Members Promote Advocacy for:
Effective professional treatment
Programs and legislation which assist persons with mental illness
Community awareness and removal of the stigma
Recommendations for services in the mental health system
Consumer representation on boards and organizations
Increased funding for research
Adequate health insurance for persons with Mental Illness
Affordable housing
Rehabilitation and social skills
JUSTICE within the Criminal Justice System
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NAMI believes there has to be:
MORE UNDERSTANDING
MORE IMPROVEMENT
MORE VOICES TO SHOUT LOUDER
WE NEED PEOPLE TO LISTEN! NAMI IS HERE TO HELP GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS
