Five years ago I was told that in all probability I would never be able to work again. Filing for social security disability made me feel like a failure.  Even with this financial assistance I lost all that was important to me.  There were many times that I just gave up.  It's a miracle that I am alive.   Fighting our way back from the abyss is possible.  NAMI programs in California and Oklahoma helped me find some of the help and resources I needed.  Sometimes it is difficult to ask for help.  It makes us feel vulnerable. Yet, it's in our vulnerability that we find strength.  We find strength in coming to together.  We can receive and give the support we need to go forth and conquer our challenges together.  I encourage you to seek out a NAMI connections group.

Feelings of Loneliness

As a regular attendee of NAMI Connection groups, I have noticed a common feeling of loneliness among attendees.  Our symptoms can be difficult for our family members to understand.  We live in a society where many are uneducated regarding mental illness and little money is spent on mental health services. This is why I attend these meetings.  No matter how lonely I feel when I arrive, I leave feeling better.  I realize, I'm not alone.  This is a priceless gift and it's free! Thank you to all who attend these meetings with me. 

New Tulsa Family Suppprt Group

The new family support group that meets the third Monday of every month at 7 pm is off to a great start! The group is meeting in the home of Jim and Ellen Harris and welcomes all those who have a loved one living with mental illness. We spend just a few minutes getting to know each other and then have discussion and sharing on current problems the group wants to focus on. This meeting is structured but casual and is NOT a group therapy, but a problem solving and encouragement opportunity. Call 918-527-3536 for directions or questions.

Hope can be found in Wagoner!

I'm really excited about the NAMI Connections group being held in Wagoner on Tuesday evenings at 6 pm.  NAMI Connections is a support group for those who struggle with mental illness.  These meetings help me talk about my challenges in a safe place where I won't be judged.  These meetings are confidential.  Please feel free to join us at the Church of Christ every Tuesday night in Wagoner.  Toni Sarch 918-418-2534

Churches Reach Out To Mentally Ill

    NAMI would not be able to do all we have without the great teamwork and aid of the many local church communities throughout Green Country.  Currently, a number of ministries facilitate ongoing support groups. Still others open their doors for monthly NAMI meetings, family education classes, office accommodations, fixtures and furnishings, and other forms of aid to struggling families.

    We want to thank the following group who, in no particular order, are some of the top of the top of the list; when it comes to treating the mentally ill with special care...

• First Presbyterian
• Fellowship Congregational
• All Souls
• Asbury
• Christ Presbyterian
• Ascension Lutheran
• Bright Tomorrows

There are so many others who have helped, through the years, and still others whose quiet aid has gone un-noticed more often than not. But as Dr. Joyce says; "You'll have your reward in heaven".

Five More Support Groups For Tulsa

    There are 5 added support groups to the Green Country community. These are offered by the Mental Health Assoc. of Tulsa. You may call them at 918-585-1213 for specific details, but they are going to be held in downtown Tulsa, at 1870 S. Boulder Ave..

• Bipolar Support Group: 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm
• Depression Support Group: 1st & 3rd Thursday, 6pm
• Anxiety Support Group: 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 6:30pm
• Survivors of Suicide: 1st & 3rd Thursday, 6:30pm
• Families In Touch (family caregivers): 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 6pm

For a complete listing of the vast number of meeting options, check out the new www.NAMItulsa.org
website.