NAMI Launches StrengthofUs.org

Check out StrengthofUs.org, a new online community where young adults living with mental health concerns can provide mutual support  in navigating unique challenges and opportunities during the critical transition years from ages 18 to 25. 

Developed by young adults, StrengthofUs.org is a user-driven social networking community where members can connect with peers, share personal stories, creativity and helpful resources by writing and responding to blog entries, engaging in discussion groups and sharing videos, photos and other news.

The site offers resources on issues important to young adults, including:

• Healthy relationships
• Family and friends
• Campus life
• Independent living
• Employment
• Finances
• Housing
• Mental health issues

SAMHSA Launches Web Resources to Assist in Understanding Mental Illness and Coping with a Traumatic Event

The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) made available several web-based resources to assist tragic shootings on the campuses of Northern  Illinois  University and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State  University

Understanding Mental Illness - Coping with a Traumatic Event
a collection of resources and informational materials to build better public understanding about mental health problems. This includes fact sheets on the facts and myths of mental illnesses - including issues of violence, information on SAMHSA's National Anti-Stigma Campaign targeting young adults with the theme of "What a Difference a Friend Makes", real stories of people in recovery from mental illnesses, training materials to develop mentally healthy schools, and much more.

Coping with Traumatic Events 
a series of resources on how to respond to a traumatic event including materials for responders/health professionals, students, schools, adults and families.

Related Resources from NAMI

• A Snapshot of College Mental Health Centers
  To gauge the readiness of college campuses in support ing students with mental health needs, NAMI surveyed the directors of selected campus mental health centers in 2006. The sample included 150 colleges and universities.
• Depression in the Dorms: What You Need to Know About Mental Health and College
  An article from Deborah Gray of HealthCentral.com discussing the role of schools, parents, and peers in responding to depression in college students.