NAMI South Suburbs of Chicago

10/10/2026

Today is World Mental Health Day 2026! This year’s theme is Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change. WHO Atlas Stats: According to recent data shared around the campaign, 80% of mental health policies or plans have been developed with input from people with lived experience, though only 9% of systems have fully transitioned to community care. Meaningfully engaging people with lived experience (PWLE) in shaping mental health policies, care practices, and legislation rather than just listening to them!

10/10/2026

When you are not sure what to think or where to turn, look to for evidence-based support available in your community. That’s when you know you ate not alone. They help turn science into hope.

10/04/2026

Every stage of growing up brings different emotions, experiences, and challenges.

Me in Mind by NAMI offers free, age-appropriate activities for children in kindergarten through 8th grade, designed around the emotional needs and developmental stages of young people as they grow.

Parents, caregivers, educators, and others who work with young people can use these activities to start meaningful conversations, build emotional awareness, and help kids explore healthy ways to cope with life’s challenges.

Find activities that meet the young people in your life where they are.

Download the free activities at nami.org/MeInMind

10/04/2026

“Our path forward may shift with the landscape, but our destination remains unchanged.” – Dan Gillison, CEO, NAMI

As mental health needs grow, NAMI is leaning in—with a bold plan and a shared commitment to change lives.

Read the full statement from our CEO: https://www.nami.org/FromtheCEO

10/04/2026

Mental Illness Awareness Week begins today. 💚

This year, we’re exploring how science and lived experience work together to deepen our understanding of mental illness and create better pathways to care.

Research helps us understand mental health conditions, but the experiences of people living with mental illness — and the families and communities alongside them — help give that research meaning. When people share their stories, they can challenge stigma, identify gaps, and help shape what comes next.

Throughout , we’ll share stories, resources, and information that show how we can turn science into hope.

Visit NAMI.org/miaw to learn more.

09/21/2026

Please join NAMI South Suburbs of Chicago for lunch Friday September 25th to celebrate the power of peer support in mental health and substance use recovery in Chicago’s Southland. Join peer professionals, mental health experts, and community leaders from noon to 2:00pm at Balagio Ristorante in Homewood. For more information or to register please email [email protected] or call 1-708-852-9126

09/21/2026

G’mar Chatima Tovah to those who observe Yom Kippur! May you have a blessed fast and a meaningful period of reflection.

09/21/2026

Recovery stories build understanding, inspire hope, and strengthen communities. Shared lived experience can help others seek support and begin their own recovery journey.

09/16/2026

09/08/2026

988 Day is a day of action held annually on 9/8. The goal of 988 day is to raise awareness and positive buzz about the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline. The 2026 Theme is 988 Reasons: this theme reminds us that you don’t have to be in crisis to reach out to 988. Whatever you’re facing, big or small, your reason for seeking support is reason enough. Share your reason this #988