CHW Networking Gathering with NAMI RI

Do you work with clients that live with mental health conditions?

Do you know which NAMI groups and classes you should refer them to?

Join CHWARI on 8/21 at noon to network with other CHWs and learn about the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This gathering will be facilitated by Penny Ferrara, manager of NAMI’s school and public education. She has over 15 years working at NAMI RI educating various groups in the general public and in schools on recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental illness and suicide, how stigma can often prevent people from seeking help and the importance of learning positive coping skills. She also teaches Peer to Peer classes. Her presentation will be followed by a Q &A and then 30 minutes of CHW networking!

NAMI Rhode Island (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers programs for people affected by mental illness such as Connection support groups and Peer to Peer classes as well as support and classes for family members.

These Connection support groups offer a safe place with no judgement to share thoughts and feelings regarding mental illness. Participants can pass and just listen and they often find comfort in group wisdom. These groups on Zoom however there are a few that meet in person.

Our Peer to Peer classes are facilitated by 2 people living well with their mental illness. Participants learn about the different psychiatric illness in great detail, how the brain works, positive coping skills and setting goals.

This gathering will be facilitated by Penny Ferrara, manager of school and public education. She has over 15 years working at NAMI RI educating various groups in the general public and in schools on recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental illness and suicide, how stigma can often prevent people from seeking help and the importance of learning positive coping skills. She also teaches Peer to Peer classes.