NAMI Southwest Louisiana's Free Family-to-Family Education Program for Fall 2026

Eight-week peer-led program helps families better understand mental illness, strengthen communication and support a loved one’s recovery

NAMI Southwest Louisiana will offer its free NAMI Family-to-Family education program this fall for family members and friends of individuals experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.

The eight-session program will be held Thursdays, September 17 through November 5, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. The location will be provided to registered participants.

NAMI Family-to-Family is designed to give families practical information, resources and tools for navigating the challenges that can accompany mental illness. Participants learn about various mental health conditions and treatment options while developing problem-solving techniques, effective coping strategies, communication skills and ways to de-escalate difficult situations within the family.

One of the program’s most important distinctions is that it is peer-led. Classes are facilitated by trained volunteers who have their own lived experience supporting a loved one with mental illness.

Rather than approaching families only from a clinical perspective, Family-to-Family connects participants with people who understand firsthand the uncertainty, stress and challenges that can come with trying to help someone they love.

NAMI Southwest Louisiana has served the region since 1984, providing mental health education, support and resources throughout Calcasieu, Cameron, Jeff Davis, Allen and Beauregard parishes. Following the destruction of its office during Hurricane Laura and subsequent organizational changes, local volunteers have continued providing NAMI programs in Southwest Louisiana as an extension of NAMI Louisiana.

Families who have completed the program have learned how to better recognize and understand symptoms of mental illness, communicate more effectively with their loved ones and advocate for appropriate services and treatment. Participants also gain a better understanding of available resources, how to navigate mental health systems and how to respond more effectively during difficult or escalating situations.

Those skills can make a difference for the entire family. Participants learn how to support a loved one’s recovery with greater empathy while also establishing healthier responses to the stress and disruption mental illness can create within a household.

Just as importantly, Family-to-Family gives participants the opportunity to learn alongside others who understand what they are experiencing. The program helps families recognize that many of the emotions and challenges they face are shared by others and gives them practical tools they can continue using long after the eight-week course ends.

There is no cost to participate in NAMI Family-to-Family, but registration is required.

To register for the Fall 2026 class, call or text Jerrie Abshire at 337-965-9507 or email [email protected].