Lack of information and misconceptions surrounding mental health issues prevent many members of the African American community from getting the help and support they need. Sharing Hope is an hour-long presentation that can help increase mental health awareness in African American communities by addressing a number of important topics:
- The signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression
- How to talk about mental health and decrease stigma
- An overview of recovery and how it’s possible
- The types of mental health services and supports available, including NAMI education and support programs
What’s Included in the Presentation?
- A presenter team made up of at least two individuals–a person living with a mental health condition and a family member of a person with a mental health condition.
- A scripted 60-minute interactive dialogue centered on the presenters’ personal connections to mental health and journeys to recovery.
- A handout for presentation audiences, Sharing Hope: An African American Guide to Mental Health. This educational booklet provides mental health information through personal stories and highlights how and where to find help.
- Detailed checklists, practice sheets and other materials to help you make community connections and plan a successful presentation.
The tools and resources in Sharing Hope are all modifiable, so they can be adapted to fit your needs and resources.
How Do I Start Sharing Hope?
Sharing Hope requires you to reach out and build relationships in your community.
You must be directly involved with a NAMI State Organization or NAMI Affiliate to use these resources. Get started by downloading the materials release form.
If you have any questions, please NAMI Education, sharinghope@nami.org
Sharing Hope has been adapted for the Latino community. Click here to learn more about Compartiendo Esperanza, a fully bilingual adaptation of this initiative.