Each meeting begins promptly at the posted time with a few brief announcements regarding upcoming education night speakers, social events, or NAMI state and national events.
The evening’s facilitators introduce themselves and invite participants to read aloud the Group Guidelines and Principles of Support.
The facilitators then share a brief summary of their own personal stories–a description of their own or their loved one’s mental health situation, what stage of emotional reactions they are currently in, and perhaps how they found NAMI and what they have gained from being a part of NAMI.
Going around the circle, each participant is invited to share a 1-2 minute opening story. Anyone who does not wish to speak may pass.
After everyone has had an opportunity to share, the facilitators guide the discussion based on the most pressing needs of the group that evening.
Meetings conclude promptly at the posted time.
