NAMI strives for diversity in every area, especially our services. Our mission is to educate and advocate for affordable, accessible mental health care for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, age, or socio-economic class.
What about religion? NAMI is not intrinsically religious–we support people in their recovery regardless of whether or not they have religious beliefs. But we realize that many people find mental health support in their faith traditions; we also recognize that those same traditions can sometimes reinforce stigmas about mental health. To those who find their religions important in their mental health journeys, we are here to support you.
On August 26 and 27, there will be a Pathways to Hope conference, part of NAMI FaithNet, to help communities build grassroots movement to engage faith communities, mental health providers, NAMI members, and other community partners in building coalitions to support people living with mental health conditions. More information can be found on the NAMI National web site by clicking here.
Are you a member of the clergy seeking support for your mental health ministry or, perhaps, your own wellness? NAMI North Carolina’s Executive Director Garry Crites, himself an ordained minister, is part of a consortium with Faith Connections on Mental Illness and the North Carolina Council of Churches, which collaborates on a mental health blog designed specifically for religious leaders across denominational and religious lines. To check it out, click here.
