Outer Banks Establishes Local Affiliate of National Alliance on Mental Health to Expand Support Programs

Outer Banks Community Forms Affiliate of National Alliance on Mental Health

With an aim to broaden mental health support in the Outer Banks community, NAMI OBX, an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), recently announced the formation of a local chapter. Striving to provide additional support programs, the initiative addresses the needs of both adults and adolescents affected by mental health issues in the region stretching from Corolla to Ocracoke.

This local endeavor became a reality, thanks to the concerted efforts of community members who have been impacted by mental health issues either through their personal interactions or professional engagements with individuals grappling with such challenges. Since its inception in 1979, NAMI has established itself as the country’s largest grassroots mental health organization with an unwavering mission to improve the lives of millions of Americans grappling with mental illness. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) establishment, NAMI’s advocacy, education, support, and public awareness initiatives ensure that affected individuals and families can build better lives. With over 600 affiliates, NAMI has chapters in 49 states and NAMI OBX operates under the banner of the North Carolina State Chapter.

NAMI OBX’s Proposed Initiatives

NAMI OBX is set to offer free education and support programs to those in the local community living with mental illness. Our goal is to enhance existing therapies or treatments with additional support, encouragement, and resources. Whether an individual is dealing with mental health issues firsthand, or knows someone who is, NAMI OBX’s programs offer a beacon of hope. Offering specially designed programs for adults and adolescents helps them to gain a better understanding of mental health, learn effective coping skills, and build a supportive community to aid their recovery. All facilitators partaking in this cause are trained and certified volunteers through NAMI national.

Community Awareness Events

In an effort to introduce NAMI OBX to the Outer Banks community, a series of upcoming NAMI OBX Town Hall Meetings are being organized from Corolla to Ocracoke between April 24th and May 13th. These 30-minute presentations, followed by a question and answer session, will provide community members an opportunity to initiate dialogues to better understand the community’s needs and concerns in relation to mental health issues.

Expert Advocacy in Mental Health

Reflecting on the importance of mental health awareness and support, Dr. Richard Martin, NAMI Vice Chair, and a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and a Certified Clinical Supervisor, stated, “Mental Health has been a top concern in our community for years. Establishing a NAMI affiliate gives our community access to a wide array of resources to address the mental health challenges faced by individuals and families. For those asking what can be done and how to help, I can’t think of a better answer than to Join NAMI Outer Banks.”

Marking May as the National Mental Health Awareness Month, an inaugural NAMIwalk OBX will be held on May 18th in Kill Devil Hills to raise funds for our local programs. This awareness walk, beginning at Aviation Park, invites local residents to join a dialogue about mental illness in the Outer Banks.