From crisis to hope. How do we get there? By breaking down barriers. NAMI is often the first place people turn for help, usually when they are in crisis. Through our education classes and support groups we break down the barriers of misunderstanding and isolation. Through our advocacy we break down the barriers to accessing services and supports. NAMI is a movement, but we are also a family. NAMI helps individuals, but also works for systemic change.

Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at it destination full of hope.

-Maya Angelou

Everyday NAMI Minnesota breaks down barriers and makes a significant difference in someone’s life. Joanne attended one of our classes, she knows that “it won't be easy but now I know that it is possible for my daughter to get better.”

NAMI breaks down barriers and connects people to each other. NAMI offers 59 support groups for people with mental illnesses & family members. Sheila said “We felt so welcomed, as if we knew you for many years. Everybody made us feel comfortable and accepted. All the information and tips you gave us will be very helpful to our family.”

NAMI works to break down barriers in our mental health system. Multiple hospitalizations are not uncommon for individuals like John, who since he was 16 has been hospitalized nearly a dozen times a year. NAMI is working to make sure that young adults who experience the first serious symptoms of a mental illness have access to the treatments and supports needed.

NAMI breaks down barriers due to attitudes. We are continuing to work with mental health providers and hospitals to make sure that people with mental illnesses are treated with dignity and respect and that the importance of involving families and friends is recognized.