Classes
NAMI Chicago offers several classes designed to help participants improve their understanding of mental health conditions, develop wellness strategies for managing their own mental health, and connect with community and resources for the future.
Below are descriptions of the various classes NAMI Chicago offers. Please note that not all classes will be accepting participants at any given time, so check this page often for updates when a new class opens for registration. All class attendees must register in advance; please follow the registration instructions underneath the currently available class listings to secure your spot.
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
WRAP is a free 4- or 8-week educational course where individuals living with a mental health condition can learn tools to strengthen their recovery and connect to a community of support. Led by peers who are also on their own mental health journey.
WRAP On the Go
WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) On the Go is a free 2-hour presentation developed from an evidence-based, internationally-known curriculum, designed to help people who have difficulty managing their mental health by providing them with the tools to stay healthy and well. Attendees identify personal stressors and mental health symptoms to create an action plan for the next time those symptoms happen.
NAMI Smarts for Advocacy
As advocates and legislators consider critical legislation, hone your skills to make your voice heard! NAMI Smarts for Advocacy, NAMI Chicago’s free advocacy training workshop will teach you how to turn your lived experience into a powerful 90-second speech geared to move policymakers. Sign up for our 60-minute interactive workshop where you will learn how to think about your own experiences in a new way and have an opportunity to draft and practice your story.
Family to Family
Family to Family is a free 8- or 12-week educational course designed for family members looking to develop skills to support their loved one living with a mental health condition. This group class is led by trained family members with experience supporting a loved one on their mental health journey.
NAMI Chicago Chat
NAMI Chicago Chat is a one-hour interactive program for young people ages 10-13, designed to increase kids’ understanding of mental health, as well as help them develop coping strategies and safe connections for managing their own emotions.
Ending the Silence
Ending the Silence is a free, 90-minute presentation designed to give parents and caregivers an opportunity to learn about youth mental health. Participants will learn signs, symptoms, and indicators of mental health conditions and suicide in young people. Parents and caregivers are given ideas about how to help their children, connect with their child's school, and find support. Additionally, a community member living with a mental health condition will share their journey of recovery.
To provide the best support possible, we ask that all attendees read and adhere to the below guidelines before joining a class. Participants interested in an in-person class should also be familiar with our In Person Groups and Classes Policy. For virtual classes, please note that meeting rooms will be closed to new attendees 15 minutes after the start time.