NAMI Southeastern Arizona

NAMI Southeastern Arizona is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing advocacy, education, support, and public awareness for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Serving the counties of Cochise, Greenlee, Graham, and Santa Cruz in Arizona, it is an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a nationwide network with over 600 affiliates across the United States.

History and Mission

Established in 1994, NAMI Southeastern Arizona has been committed to improving the lives of those impacted by mental health conditions. The organization operates with a grassroots approach, offering free programs and services to the community. Its mission centers on educating the public, advocating for better mental health policies and services, and providing support to individuals living with mental illness and their families. Recognizing that mental illnesses are common, treatable medical conditions that affect brain function, NAMI SEAZ aims to reduce stigma and enhance understanding through its outreach efforts.

Programs and Services

NAMI Southeastern Arizona offers a variety of programs tailored to the needs of its community, including:

• Education: The organization conducts educational programs and maintains a lending library of over 1,500 titles on mental health topics such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, traumatic brain injury, and parenting. This resource supports individuals, families, and caregivers in gaining knowledge about mental health.

• Advocacy: NAMI SEAZ advocates for quality community care, housing, and supportive services, working to influence legislation and funding that improves mental health resources within its service area.

• Support: It provides support groups and resources for individuals affected by mental illness, including family members and caregivers. Specific programs such as "NAMI Basics OnDemand" offer accessible, free online courses to help parents and caregivers navigate youth mental health challenges confidently.

Community Engagement

NAMI Southeastern Arizona hosts events, workshops, and group meetings to foster community connection and shared experiences for those affected by mental illness. It collaborates with local centers such as the Rothery Education Center and the Warrior Healing Center in Sierra Vista, Arizona, to deliver its services effectively.

Affiliations

As part of the National Alliance on Mental Illness network, NAMI Southeastern Arizona aligns with a broader mission to provide advocacy, education, and support nationwide. This affiliation ensures access to comprehensive resources and best practices in mental health care.

Through its dedicated efforts, NAMI Southeastern Arizona plays a vital role in building better lives for individuals and families impacted by mental health conditions in southeastern Arizona.

Note: This article is based on information from NAMI Southeastern Arizona's official resources.