NAMI-NYC supports integrating mental health education into our educational system so we can increase understanding about mental illness and give students and educators the tools needed to support themselves and their peers with mental health challenges. 

Education is a critical instrument in fighting mental health stigma and creating healthier communities. Education projects NAMI-NYC supports include: 

Supporting Mental Health Education and Resources in Schools 

According to government data, one in five children struggle with a mental health condition and many do not have access to the support they need. Half of all mental-health and substance-use conditions start before age 14. 

We advocate for all New York City public schools to have an adequate ratio of school counselors and social workers to students. NAMI-NYC also supports legislation that addresses suicide prevention, especially policies that specifically address the needs of high-risk groups in schools, including students who have lost a friend or family member to suicide, students with disabilities or chronic health conditions, students experiencing homelessness, and LGBTQ+ students.  

We also support bringing mental health resources to NYC schools now. NAMI-NYC’s Ending the Silence program is for middle and high school students, parents/caregivers, and school staff. Participants learn the warning signs of mental health conditions, discover strategies to improve mental health, and discuss the importance of open communication about mental health concerns. This program fulfills the New York State’s requirement for mental health education in schools. 

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Supporting Mental Health Caregivers 

One in five Americans are dealing with mental health challenges. “The Other 4” are the family members and loved ones who care for them. Our government must recognize the importance and cost-effectiveness of investing in prevention services, and commit to funding critical initiatives that support family, caregivers, and peers. 

Support for families of people living with mental illness is vital and central to the work we do at NAMI-NYC. Although supporting loved ones can be essential to the well-being of New Yorkers living with mental illness, they are rarely acknowledged as such on a governmental or policy level. Family members often serve as the immediate support system for people experiencing challenges with their mental health, and this role can be associated with significant emotional, physical, and financial burdens. By providing family members with free resources and education, we can equip them with the means necessary to navigate the complexities of supporting a loved one with mental illness. Individuals living with mental illness are more likely to begin treatment earlier and benefit from treatment plans when there is encouraging and helpful family involvement. Recognizing the challenges families face in acting as a support system will benefit them and their loved ones, helping to create a more compassionate and caring society.  

Investing in Peer and Youth Support 

Youth Peer-to-Peer Programs 

Since the start of the pandemic, the mental health of young people has been a global concern. With one in five children experiencing a mental health condition and suicide being the second leading cause of death among young people, New York City is facing an unprecedented youth mental health crisis. Existing systems are failing to meet the needs of our youth, particularly those from underserved communities.  The mental health system is also experiencing a workforce shortage, with many left unable to access care.  

Knowing this, NAMI-NYC aims to leverage its expertise from lived experience and expand its programs to provide young people with the tools and support needed to access care and manage their own mental health effectively.