What is NAMI? What is Front Line?

You may hear us mention NAMI from time-to-time, as it has become such an integral part of our life. We were first recommended to NAMI by the local VA, who suggested we attend the Front Line PTSD support group for both the veteran and the family. We've been attending the bi-monthly meetings ever since.

NAMI is an acronym for "National Alliance of Mental Illness." But don't let that scare you off. Many veterans (and civilans alike) do not associate PTSD with mental illness, which we stigmatize with negative images of institutions and "crazy people." But in fact, according to NAMI, One in five people worldwide have a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives. Shocking, right? Mental illness is more common than we think, and there is no shame in admitting that one suffers from a mental illness or a mental disorder. PTSD is often the result of a person experiencing a traumatic event and the brain's coping mechanisms result in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. So there you have it. Is PTSD a mental illness?: Yes. Should we be afraid? Nope.

So what is NAMI again? According to their website, NAMI.org:

From its inception in 1979, NAMI has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

For three decades, NAMI has established itself as the most formidable grassroots mental health advocacy organization in the country. Dedication, steadfast commitment and unceasing belief in NAMI's mission by grassroots advocates have produced profound changes. NAMI's greatest strength is the dedication of our grassroots leaders and members. We are the families, friends and individuals that serve to strengthen communities across the country.

Due in large part to generous individual, corporate, and foundation donations, NAMI is able to build on its success and continue to focus on three cornerstones of activity that offer hope, reform, and health to our American community: Awareness, Education, and Advocacy.

We highly recommend that you visit NAMI's website for information on mental illness, PTSD, and review their sections of the website dedicated specifically to veterans and their families. Check with your local NAMI chapter for support groups and educational classes (FIND YOUR LOCAL NAMI).

The amazing Front Line founders, Russ Sempell & Patrice Maniaci

Our local Kern County chapter has developed a PTSD support group, Front Line, geared towards those suffering from PTSD and their families. The support group meets bi-monthly and open to the veterans and their families (1st & 3rd Tuesdays of every month 6-7:30 p.m. Good Samaritan Hospital Southwest, 5201 White Lane, Bakersfield). On average, there are approx. 20 people in attendance and there are a mix of veterans and family members. We laugh, we cry, and we keep everything confidential within the meeting. We cannot express how much we have been affected by our local Front Line group, as they have become like a second family and support system to us. If your local NAMI chapter does not have a Front Line group and you are interested in starting one, let us know. We would love to have Front Line become a national program under the NAMI umbrella of services.

So there you have it. A little about NAMI and a little about Front Line, two things near and dear to our hearts. Don't worry, you'll be hearing about them more in the future. That's how much we believe in them as a major recovery tool.

Originally posted on PTSDdiary.com, 2/24/10