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Serving the St. Louis area since 1978, NAMI St. Louis is the local affiliate
of a nationwide not-for-profit organization established by and for families of individuals
stricken with severe mental illness. Severe mental illnesses are neurobiologically
based diseases of the brain that include schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder
(manic depression), major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder.
As the only organization whose primary purpose is to serve families affected by
these illnesses, we offer them support and education about mental illness and mental
health services. Our purpose is to help them respond to mental illness in their
family appropriately and effectively (therapeutically), from a base of knowledge
and understanding rather than fear or stigma. Furthermore, we are among the most
effective advocates for desperately needed improvements to the mental health care
delivery system. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals,
and their families, living with severe and persistent mental illness.
Research shows that our services have impact. When families are well informed
about mental illness, then their loved ones have an improved response to psychiatric
care, with a reduced rate of rehospitalization and a corresponding reduced cost
for care (Arch Gen Psych, 1995, 52:679-687). Our vision is that people with severe
mental illness will not be disabled by their illness, but will be self-confident,
productive, contributing and respected members of our community.
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