About The Class

 The fundamentals of caring for you, your family 
and your child with a mental health diagnosis.

The next Basics class will be scheduled soon  The class meets one night a week from 6:30-9:00pm at the NAMI Whatcom office at 800 E. Chestnut St., Suite 1C, Bellingham, Wa 98225.

NAMI Basics is a free, 6-week education program for parents and family caregivers of children and teens whom are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or whom have already been diagnosed. NAMI Basics is offered in a group setting so you can connect with other people face-to-face.

Some topics addressed in the Basics course: 

• Managing crises, solving problems and communicating effectively
• How to take care of yourself and handle stress
• Developing the confidence and stamina to support your child with compassion
• Advocating for your child's rights at school and in health care settings
• Learning about current treatments, including evidence-based therapies, medications and side effects
• Gaining an overview of the public mental health care, school and juvenile justice systems
• Understanding the challenges and impact of mental health conditions on your entire family