by Brenda Allington, Florence
For 22 years, I practiced as a women’s health care provider in Missoula. I am now retired, but when I think back, I am saddened that I did not know about NAMI Missoula as a local resource. It was only in talking with a member of my church community five years ago that I learned of a program (“Family to Family”) offered by the Missoula affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. That program would prove to be what I now refer to as “our gift from God.”
Mental illness does not occur in a vacuum. The ripple effect is not only “in the moment,” and the anguish it causes is not confined to the person experiencing mental health challenges. Very few in our community are untouched by mental illness; it can affect us directly, or our loved ones, work colleagues, neighbors, etc. Mental illness is the “elephant in the room” for far too many.
I wish I had known about NAMI Missoula when I was in practice; my clients could have benefitted. But I know now; and, for those facing the challenges of mental illness with family or friends, I cannot emphasize enough how NAMI Missoula’s “Family to Family” course can bring healing and hope.
If you would like further information, please contact NAMI Missoula at 406-880-1013. Truly, you are not alone.