Staff reports

NAMI Family-to-Family, a free 12-week class for relatives of individuals diagnosed with a severe mental illness, will be offered in Asheville from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays beginning March 19. NAMI Western Carolina, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, sponsors the course with funding from Western Highlands Network.

Taught by trained family members, the course focuses on schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, clinical depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorder, and co-occurring addictions.

In empathy workshops, students learn what it’s like for their loved ones to have a mental illness. They develop problem-solving, communication, and advocacy skills. Self-care, emotional support, and empowerment are emphasized. For many participants, Family-to-Family is their first opportunity to talk with others dealing with a relative’s mental illness. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry reports that when family members take this or a similar course, persons with mental illness experience a 50% reduction in relapse, increased stabilization, and a decrease in hospitalizations.

Since the class size is limited, early registration is required. Call (828) 505-043 or (828) 299-9596 for information.