Support Groups

FREE peer-led support groups for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges.

In person and online. No registration required. We don’t permit observers in our groups.

For more information, call/text our Helpline at 212-684-3264 or email us at helpline@naminyc.org and we’ll connect you to our programs!

“It’s very healing to hear what others are doing to help themselves and their loved ones.” – support group participant

Have you attended one of our support groups? We want to hear from you! Complete the evaluation.

Peer Groups

NAMI-NYC offers free, peer-led support groups for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Participants find support, share coping strategies, and learn practical information. All groups are led by trained volunteers with lived experience and provide a safe and judgement-free environment of mutual respect and sharing. Support groups meet both online and in person. You do not have to pre-register. We make it easy for you to participate!

Family Groups

NAMI-NYC offers free, peer-led family support groups for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Participants find support, share coping strategies, and learn practical information. All groups are led by trained volunteers with lived experience and provide a safe and judgement-free environment of mutual respect and sharing. Support groups meet both online and in person. You do not have to pre-register. We will make it easy for you to participate!

NAMI-NYC Support Group FAQs

What is the purpose of a support group?

Support groups provide a space to connect with others going through similar challenges. When you join a support group, you have the opportunity to receive support from people who understand and can validate your experiences and feelings. Your insights and support can also help others who are struggling. Giving and receiving support, information, and coping strategies – this is what our support groups are all about!

How often do support groups meet?

Most support groups meet twice a month, though a few meet every week or once a month. They are usually 90 minutes in length, with a few exceptions. Check our support groups listing to see how often each group meets.

Am I required to register for a support group?

No. You do not have to register for support groups.

Does it cost money to attend a support group?

No. All NAMI-NYC support groups are free.

Who leads NAMI-NYC support groups?

All groups are peer-led and facilitated by highly trained volunteers with lived experiences that align with the focus of the group. For example, our “Living with Depression” group is led by facilitators that have lived with depression. Our “family and friends” group is led by family members who have a loved one with a mental illness.

Do I have to prove my diagnosis to attend diagnosis-specific support groups?

No! If your lived experience aligns with the focus of the group, you are welcome to attend. No proof is necessary.

How many people attend groups?

Most groups average 6-10 participants. A few groups are larger.

How many groups can I attend?

You can attend as many groups as are helpful to you. We encourage you to participate in groups as you need them.

What is the format of a support group?

There are two support group facilitators (leaders) in each group.

Whether a group is in-person or virtual, the facilitator will ask each participant to check in for a minute or two at the start of the group. During check-in, participants will be asked to answer a few questions. Questions vary slightly from group to group, but participants are always asked for their first name and to verify they are in the correct space. For example, in the “Living with Depression” group, the leader will ask if participants live with depression. Check in also includes a question about how participants are doing currently, giving each person an opportunity to share.

After the check-in, the facilitator will lead a conversation, pulling out themes from the check-in and calling upon people to speak more deeply about the issues they are dealing with. Other participants in the group can provide support or talk about similar issues and how they may have coped with them. The goal of the group is for participants to share burdens and successes, give and receive support and form powerful connections.

Are there support group rules?

Yes. Please read our guidelines in advance of attending a support group so you are able to get what you need and follow protocols. It is important to note that getting to your group on time is critical. Please read the late policy of the group you would like to attend. This policy is outlined on the support group page of the specific group you are interested in.

Are groups remote or in person?

Most groups at NAMI-NYC are virtual, using the Zoom platform. A few groups are in person. Check our page to see which groups are in person and which groups are virtual.

Can I observe a support group?

No. People are not permitted to attend a group to observe it. Support groups are only for people whose lived experiences align with the topic of the group and wish to support, share, and connect with others who have similar lived experiences. For example, if you participate in our Living with Bipolar group, you must identify as having this lived experience.

Can I attend a support group with my loved one?

Not unless your loved one also identifies with the focus of the group. While we recognize that a family member may want to support and encourage their loved one by attending with them, we do not permit observers. Only people that personally identify with the focus of the group are permitted to attend.

Why would I go to a support group if I’m already in therapy?

Peer support is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment.

Credentialed clinicians provide therapy while support groups are peer led by trained volunteer leaders who have firsthand experience with the issues being discussed. A peer group provides a space where people can come together to offer mutual support and encouragement. Professional mental health treatment and peer led support groups can be very powerful when combined.

My son needs help, not me! Why would I go to a family support group to focus on myself!

Living with or providing emotional support to a loved one who is struggling can take a toll on one’s own mental health. We understand that helping your loved one is a top priority. That said, we hope you will also recognize the impact of your life situation on your own wellbeing. At NAMI-NYC we recognize the importance of self-care, connection, and support as you navigate your difficult family situation.

What can I do if I’m not comfortable with technology or if I don’t have a computer?

We try to make participation easy. If you want to participate in a virtual group but don’t have a computer or don’t feel comfortable with the Zoom platform, you can participate by phone using our call-in number. We hope that our virtual format will not get in the way of your participation.

I want to remain anonymous in your virtual groups. What can I do?

You can be anonymous! First, in all groups except Suicide Loss Survivors, you are not required to turn on your camera if you are not comfortable doing so. In addition, you can give us any name you want to give. Over time, we hope that you will join by camera and give your name; connections and community are more possible when you share yourself. But you are not required to do so.

I don’t like virtual support groups, but most groups are virtual! What can I do?

Some people may not like or feel comfortable with virtual support groups. We understand! Since the pandemic, virtual groups are expanding while in person groups are diminishing in general. As imperfect as this may be for some, we hope that you will opt to give virtual groups a try. They may not be perfect for you, but there is a lot to be gained from them.

What if I don’t know how to participate virtually?

Zoom is a frequently used meeting platform. Many local libraries have technology classes or individualized help to support people in learning how to use this platform. First go to your library to see what they offer. If you can’t find support, call our Helpline and we can work with you to find the support or training you need to participate the way you would like.

What if I live out of state? Can I still join your virtual support groups?

Yes! If you can access Zoom or call in by phone, you can join our support groups.

How can I access your virtual groups?

There are two ways to access our virtual groups: first, you can click on the group you are interested in on our support groups page. You will see the zoom and phone information toward the top of the page. Second, you can access the group through our NAMI-NYC Calendar. Find the name and date of the group and click on it.