Building Better Lives: The National Alliance on Mental Illness Expands to Outer Banks

Fulfilling the long-standing need for expanded mental health support in the Outer Banks vicinity, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recently announced the establishment of NAMI OBX. The newly inaugurated Outer Banks chapter of NAMI aims to provide necessary support and resources to adults and adolescents grappling with mental health issues across communities from Corolla to Ocracoke.

Spearheaded by community members closely affected by relationships with individuals facing mental health concerns, the formation of NAMI OBX is viewed as a significant step in the mental health landscape of the region. The goal is to provide comprehensive support to families and individuals dealing with mental health problems while breaking down the stigmas associated with mental health.

About the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

A grassroots mental health organization, NAMI was established in 1979 with a vision to create better lives for countless Americans affected by mental illness. As a registered 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization, NAMI, with over 600 affiliates spread across 49 states, is nationally recognized for their relentless work in advocacy, education, support, and public awareness vis-a-vis mental health issues.

NAMI OBX, operating under the North Carolina State Chapter, aims to offer free education and support programs to community members facing mental health challenges, including individuals, families, and friends. These programs intend to supplement existing therapies and treatments with resources, encouragement, and a supportive community focusing on the participants’ recovery.

Impact and Future Endeavors

Kathy Cooper, Co-Chair of NAMI OBX, shared her personal experiences with NAMI’s programs. “As parents of a child with a mental health disorder, we have participated in NAMI’s education programs and support groups for over five years. It has been invaluable in helping us learn to understand and cope with our loved one’s experiences.”

NAMI OBX plans to hold several awareness events, including a series of NAMI OBX Town Hall Meetings, from Corolla to Ocracoke, from April 24th to May 13th. These events are designed to introduce the organization to the local community, allowing a platform for open discussions on mental health needs and concerns.

Local Advocacy for Mental Health

Dr. Richard Martin, Vice Chair of NAMI OBX and a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, emphasized the need for such an affiliate in the community. “Establishing a NAMI affiliate gives our community access to a plethora of resources to address the mental health challenges faced by individuals and families,” said Martin.

A Step Forward: NAMIwalk OBX

To further raise awareness about mental health issues, NAMI OBX also announced an inaugural NAMIwalk scheduled for May 18th, in Kill Devil Hills, beginning at Aviation Park. This event will provide a platform for residents to discuss mental illnesses and contribute towards the local ongoing support programs.

For additional information, please contact Kathy Cooper at namiobx@gmail.com.