National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) Presentation to Council

At a recent work session, the Council received a presentation from the National Alliance on Mental Health by  Frederick R. Delp, Executive Director, NAMI, Anne Arundel County Affiliate.

NAMI was formed in 1979 by friends of loved ones who struggle with a mental illness. • We now have 1200 affiliates nationally. • Our National Headquarters is located in Arlington, Va. • Our State Headquarters is located in Columbia, Md. • We currently have 14 Maryland Affiliates Some facts about NAMI Anne Arundel County • We are a 501(c)3 not for profit charitable organization. • We have a 13 Person Board of Directors and a four person Executive Committee. • We hold monthly Executive and Board meetings. • We reach out to consumers, family members, and caregivers. • We Partner with other groups and agencies within the community and county regarding mental health needs. • We receive our funding through grants, donations, fund raising efforts, memberships and our Annual NAMI Walk

1 out of 4 adults, 57.7 million Americans experience some type of mental illness in any given year. • 1 out of 17 people live with a serious mental illness such as major depression, schizophrenia, or bi-polar disorder. • 1 out of 10 children live with a serious mental or emotional disorder. • One half of lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14 and three quarters by age 24. • Fewer than one-third of adults and one-half of children with a diagnosable mental disorder receive mental health services.

Mr. Delp states: "We invite you to join with us as we work to fulfill our mission of reducing the stigma associated with mental illness through increased awareness and helping families through support groups, education and advocacy. E-mail us today at info@namiaac.org noting your area of interest and/or expertise. We can’t wait to hear from you!"

Please see the entire presentation in "related document" below