NAMI Basics

NAMI Basics is a 6-session education program for parents, caregivers and other family who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms. This program is free to participants, 99% of whom say they would recommend the program to others. NAMI Basics is available both in person and online through NAMI Basics OnDemand.

The in-person course is taught by a trained team with lived experience raising a child with a mental health condition. They know what you’re going through because they’ve been there too.

The OnDemand program is also guided by parents and family members with lived experience but is self-paced and available 24/7. OnDemand offers the flexibility of participating in the course on your schedule. Both formats provide identical information, strategies and the opportunity to connect with other parents and caregivers.

What You’ll Gain

By participating in NAMI Basics, you’ll realize that you are not alone. You’ll find support and shared understanding—compassion, reinforcement and empathy from people who truly get your situation. And don’t forget: Your experiences may also help others in the course. Together, you will all learn that recovery is a journey, and there is hope.

NAMI Basics Covers:

• The impact mental health conditions can have on your entire family
• Different types of mental health care professionals, available treatment options and therapies
• An overview of the public mental health care, school and juvenile justice systems and resources to help you navigate these systems
• How to advocate for your child’s rights at school and in health care settings
• How to prepare for and respond to crisis situations (self-harm, suicide attempts, etc.)
• The importance of taking care of yourself
• Much, much more

What People Are Saying

“This is such a great step-by-step program that walks parents through every step. It’s as if they’re holding your hand through it all.”

“This class was unexpectedly wonderful! I did not expect to learn so very, very much! This program is well-written with excellent segues between topics. It covers so much more than BASICS—the title doesn’t do it justice.”

“I find it truly remarkable that this is free to those who are interested.”

“NAMI Basics OnDemand allows parents and primary caregivers to easily access information and resources available to support themselves and their family’s mental health needs.”

“The convenience of being able to do the program when I was able to find the time was invaluable.”

Sign Up For A Class

Find an in-person NAMI Basics class nearest to you. If a local class isn’t available, contact your NAMI Affiliate or register for the award-winning NAMI Basics OnDemand course. More information on the awards are included in the link below.

A Spanish-language version of the program, Bases y Fundamentos de NAMI, is available at some affiliates.