These free classes offer information on brain disorders (mental illnesses), how to cope, and how to advocate. NAMI Boulder County offers these classes several times a year. We keep an ongoing list for these classes, so if you are interested in taking one of them, please contact us at 303-443-4591.

Family-to-Family Class
This is a free 12-week program for family members, friends or caregivers who have a loved one with a brain disorder.

The course includes:

• Current information about schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders
• Up-to-date information about medications, side effects, and strategies for medication adherence
• Current research related to the biology of brain disorders and the evidence-based, most effective treatments to promote recovery
• Information on the subjective, lived experience of a person with mental illness - to help you gain empathy
• Special workshops for problem solving, listening, and communication techniques
• Strategies for handling crises and relapse
• Care for the caregiver: coping with worry, stress, and emotional overload
• Guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community

Call 303-443-4591 to register.

Colorado Visions Class (formerly Visions for Tomorrow)
This is a free 5-week program consisting of workshops for caregivers of children and adolescents with brain orders.

The course provides/covers:

• A safe environment to share your personal experience
• A better understanding of various mental disorders
• Ways to more effectively communicate with your child/adolescent
• De-escalation exercises
• Learn to recognize behavior patterns
• How to deal with problematic behaviors
• How to use a problem management process
• IEP and the school, what you need to know
• Parent/caregiver burnout and coping skills
• Resources available for parents/caregivers

Next class: September 26, 2008 through October 24, 2008
Time: Friday mornings from 9:00 to 11:30
Location: Boulder Valley Christian Church
To register, call 303-776-3199.

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