Description:
Our mission at NAMI (Southwestern) Wisconsin is to improve the quality of life for those who are affected by mental illness and to support research to someday eliminate these illnesses.
A grassroots organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for those affected by mental illness throughout Wisconsin. NAMI Wisconsin's resources and energy are focused in three main areas:
1. Support: People who participate in our organization learn that they do not have to struggle alone and that they are not to blame for their illness or that of a loved one. They find emotional support to make it through times of crisis, a place to share their experiences with others, and to gain an understanding of mental illness and the services available. Many of our local affiliates offer support groups where you can meet with others to share information and learn to cope.
2. Education: NAMI Wisconsin works to foster greater public awareness of major mental illness and to overcome the stigma and misconceptions that are associated with mental illness. We work to educate families, professionals, and the general public. Our educational activities include statewide conferences, regular newsletters, and our successful Family to Family program which combines a 12-week family education course with an ongoing, structured support group.
3. Advocacy: NAMI Wisconsin advocates at both the state and national levels to protect the rights and promote the welfare of people with mental illness and their loved ones. We monitor legislation in such critical areas as insurance benefits, income benefits, treatment, housing, and employment.