NAMI Minnesota

01/27/2026

A one-hour overview of trauma, its impacts on the brain, and the guiding principles of a trauma-informed approach. Trauma has long been described as a unique and personal outcome of adverse events or experiences, but exposure is more widespread in our communities than ever before. For those living with a mental illness or substance use disorder, exposure is even more common. Communities and employers can build awareness and take action to create trauma-informed and responsive spaces where people feel safe and valued. This class has been approved by the Board of Social Work to provide 1 CEU upon completion.

Date: Wednesday, February 4
Time: 1:00-2:30 PM
Zoom Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/6QrhUiviQJSc7sD_C69HyQ

01/26/2026

Self-harm among teenagers is a growing concern, not only in the U.S., but all around the world. Minnesota reflects this national trend, with recent statewide surveys indicating concerning levels of self-injury among adolescents. As rates of reported self-harm rise, parents, educators and mental health professionals are increasingly seeking to understand the underlying causes and to offer effective support.

Self-harm refers to when a person hurts their own body on purpose.

01/26/2026

Do you think someone in your life is struggling with substance use disorder? Are you looking for ways to help and support them but are not sure how or where to begin? Learn how to start the conversation with your loved ones, and find resources to help: samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/starting-the-conversation-guide.pdf

01/26/2026

01/26/2026

Have you ever wished that someone would give you one solid skill that you could use with your child right now? Join us for a conversation for parents and caregivers that can change the trajectory of your relationship with your child. During your time with us, you will receive an introduction to the skill, be offered strategies for applying it, and be provided with resources to support you.

Lunchbox Talks Online Class: Wed, Jan 7, 12:00 – 12:30 pm
NAMI Talks Hybrid Class: Wed, Feb 25, 5:00 – 6:00 pm

Find these classes on our calendar: https://namimn.org/education-and-public-awareness/calendar/

With Greta Kjos, Director of Children’s Programs. Greta provides leadership and guidance for NAMI Minnesota’s children’s, youth and young adult programs. She brings extensive knowledge of the children’s mental health systems through her own lived experience as a parent of a child living with mental illnesses. She is certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid. Her passion for helping others led her to write a book and start her own business where Greta created mental health programs, wrote curriculum and offered coaching.

01/26/2026

Supporting someone through a bipolar depressive episode isn’t about fixing them or having all the answers. It starts with understanding that their mood and behavior are part of a serious medical condition, not a choice or lack of effort. Families and friends can make a real difference by educating themselves about bipolar symptoms and what to expect, communicating with empathy, and creating a calm, predictable environment. Encouraging professional treatment and staying connected even when it’s hard gives your loved one more resources to manage their illness and recover. Patience, consistent support, and knowing when to step in for safety can strengthen your relationship and help your loved one feel understood and less alone through the hardest moments of an episode.

Struggling with the lies of bipolar depression? Read how to navigate the overwhelming darkness to find self-compassion and relief.

01/25/2026

As fear and uncertainty continue to affect communities across Minnesota, many people are feeling emotionally overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure where to turn for support. Families, parents, and caregivers are carrying added stress as they try to support children while managing their own mental health and past trauma. During this difficult time, NAMI Minnesota continues to offer free, confidential, and culturally welcoming support groups throughout the week, both online and in person.

Sunday, January 25 includes a NAMI Connection Support Group for BIPOC LGBTQIIA participants at 1:00 PM online.

Monday, January 26 offers NAMI Connection Support Groups online at 12:00 PM and two sessions at 6:30 PM, as well as an in-person Connection group in Winona at 7:00 PM. Family Support Groups on Monday include West St. Paul at 6:30 PM in person, Duluth at 6:00 PM in person, and an online Family Support Group for family members supporting loved ones living with psychosis at 6:00 PM.

Tuesday, January 27 features in-person NAMI Connection Support Groups in Ramsey County at 11:30 AM and C**n Rapids at 5:30 PM, along with a NAMI Minnesota Open Door Support Group at 1:00 PM online. Family Support Groups include an online group for partners and spouses at 6:30 PM and an in-person Family Support Group in Washington County (Stillwater) at 6:00 PM.

Wednesday, January 28 includes a NAMI Connection Support Group for Black Women at 6:00 PM online and a general NAMI Connection Support Group at 6:30 PM online. Family Support Groups are also offered in Washington County at 6:30 PM in person and in Moorhead at 6:30 PM in person.

Thursday, January 29 offers NAMI Connection Support Groups for African-American participants at 6:00 PM online, Virginia at 5:30 PM online, Duluth at 6:00 PM in person, and Dakota County (Eagan) at 6:30 PM in person.

Friday, January 30 includes NAMI Connection Support Groups online at 2:30 PM and 6:30 PM, a hybrid online and in-person Connection group in Hennepin County at 6:45 PM, and an in-person Connection group in Northfield at 7:00 PM.

Saturday, January 31 closes the week with a NAMI Connection Support Group for LGBTQ+ participants at 1:00 PM online.

If you or someone you love is feeling overwhelmed or alone, these groups offer a safe space to connect with others who understand and find support during a challenging time. Full details and registration information here: https://namimn.org/support/nami-minnesota-support-groups/

01/25/2026

01/25/2026

We are heartbroken to witness yet another killing by ICE captured on video in our community — a tragic act of violence that has left our neighbors shaken and grieving. Our hearts are breaking for the emotional and mental trauma inflicted on families who are living in fear under the weight of ongoing ICE operations. This pain is not abstract — it is real, deep, and compounded by repeated episodes of aggression, intimidation, and harassment by federal immigration agents.

We call for ICE to leave Minnesota so that our communities can begin to heal, feel safe again, and live without the constant threat of violence. It must end now.

01/24/2026

Recovery from substance use disorders is possible with the right tools! A safe, supportive environment; employment & legal support; stable housing; and reliable transportation can make all the difference. Ready to look for treatment? Visit

Find state-licensed treatment near you for addiction and substance use disorder.

01/24/2026

Skill that you could use with your child right now: Join us for a 60 minute conversation for parents and caregivers on Wednesdays, January 28, - June 24, 5:00-6:00 PM at the Shakopee Resource Center or on Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2LvXFhV1TZ2mOd4aYVXqFA