NAMI Announces Launch of Updated NAMI Hearts+Minds Program

Oct 6, 2021

NAMI is pleased to announce the launch of the first phase of the updated NAMI Hearts+Minds, a program that educates and empowers individuals to better manage their health, mentally and physically.

The need to focus on mental and physical health simultaneously has never been more important. People with mental illness have significantly higher rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease and metabolic disease. These conditions worsen health and reduce lifespans.

Originally available between 2010 and 2014 as an informational presentation, the new version includes a dedicated website featuring information and wellness resources accessible to anyone at any time. The NAMI Hearts+Minds website is launching during Mental Illness Awareness Week and can be accessed at nami.org/heartsandminds.

The next phase of NAMI Hearts+Minds will include launching content and materials for NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates to use for leading this program in their area. NAMI Hearts+Minds courses will offer education and resources to help participants better manage mental and physical health conditions, medications, and how to use nutrition and physical activity as a treatment tool. Upcoming events include dedicated NAMI Ask the Expert webinars, as well as peer wellness initiatives.

We hope that NAMI Hearts+Minds also helps reduce stigma by sharing information on the achievable benefits of mental and physical wellness. This is a message that resonates with — and is relevant to — everyone everywhere, regardless of diagnosis.

NAMI believes it’s time to change the conversation on mental health — because mental health is physical health.