Focus-Now  - Our Guidelines

NAMI Agenda:

  1. Welcome
  2. Read Principles of Support & Guidelines
  3. Opening Stories (2 minute limit)
  4. Group Discussion
  5. Closing

NAMI Group Guidelines:

  1. Start and stop on time
  2. Time limit for opening stories
  3. Absolute confidentiality
  4. Be respectful
  5. Keep it in the present
  6. Empathize with each other's situation

NAMI Principles of Support:

  1. We will see the individual first, not the illness.
  2. We recognize that mental illnesses are medical   illnesses that may have environmental triggers.
  3. We understand that mental illnesses are   traumatic events.
  4. We aim for better coping skills.
  5. We find strength in sharing experiences.
  6. We reject stigma and do not tolerate discrimination.
  7. We won’t judge anyone’s pain as less than our own.
  8. We forgive ourselves and reject guilt.
  9. We embrace humor as healthy.
  10. We accept we cannot solve all problems.
  11. We expect a better future in a realistic way.
  12. We will never give up hope.