Twelve-weekmental illness program free for residents

Family to Family, a free 12-week course for family and friends of individuals with mental illness, is being offered by Far North Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Taught by trained family members, the course begins March 10 in the Panhandle Health District classroom in Bonners Ferry. It will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

The NAMI-sponsored program presents current information about schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders.

Each class focuses on a subject, including up-to-date information about medications, understanding the mentally ill relative, problem solving and communication. In addition, family members learn techniques for self care, strategies for handling crisis and relapse, and receive guidance on locating appropriate supports and services within the community.

Family members are informed about advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services.

Nationwide, over 115,000 family members have graduated from the Family to Family program.

Class size is limited. Register by calling Gini Woodward at 267-5638. Classes will be facilitated by Ruth McKnight and Woodward.

To learn more about NAMI visit www.nami.org.

The local chapter, NAMI Far North, meets the third Wednesday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Bonner General Hospital classroom in Sandpoint.