NH Family Network ~ Family, Youth & Children's Spring Newsletter

We Made It Through Week One!

As of March 23, 2020, all NH schools are utilizing remote learning for their students. Many people are working from home or have lost their jobs and are now playing the role of teacher as well. It is important for all of us to celebrate the positive, no matter how small it is, as we try to cope with the unknown, the social distancing and having everyone together.

Check out these beautiful words of encouragement on a Nashua, NH sidewalk #WeAreInThisTogether #DoYourPart

Life Under Construction Social Media

#IStayHomeFor

Below are a few reasons why our Life Under Construction (LUC), social media for youth and young adults, followers are staying home. Now we'd like to hear from you and your family members! Tell us why you are staying home and following the recommended social distancing practices. Send a picture and a brief description to [email protected] as to why you and/or your family are staying home, and we will share it on LUC! If you would like more information about LUC, check out our flyer or the links at the bottom of our web page .

"Family is the most important thing in my life. Some people in my family have underlying conditions so it’s really important to stay healthy and keep them safe” 💚. ."

Staying home can be difficult. We're all missing our friends and family, and the normal routines of life. Let's get through this together and remind ourselves of the powerful good we're doing.

" I work as an LNA at a hospital, and I stay home when I’m not at work to keep my patients safe.”

“I stay home because I live in an apartment complex with many elderly tenants. Our efforts to socially distance will increase the chances of them staying safe and healthy during this time!” 💚

Resources for Parents & Caregivers

How to Zoom! Watch this YouTube video https://youtu.be/fMUxzrgZvZQ to learn how to set up a free Zoom session to connect with family and friends.

For the latest resources from NAMI NH and COVID-19 Updates. Go to the NAMI NH website.

Does your student have an IEP? Check these websites for useful information Wrightslaw and the Parent Information Center.

NAMI NH is still providing training to parents and caregivers. The flyer for our latest Parents Meeting the Challenge class is below. To register, click here or for more information email [email protected] .

Most of the Parent & Caregiver Groups listed below will be moving to a virtual meeting format. For dates and times, go to the NAMI NH website or reach out to the contact person listed on the flyer .

Closed Facebook Group

Looking for support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? Consider joining our closed, private Facebook group for Parents & Caregivers. Members often provide good advice in a caring and non-judgmental way.

Click here for more information.

NAMI NH Information & Resource Line

The Information & Resource Line (1-800-242-6264) is always available for callers to leave a confidential message – a NAMI New Hampshire team member will return your call within 48 business hours Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Callers are connected with, or can leave a message for, one of our trained NAMI NH staff. These individuals can help answer questions and provide specific information on NAMI NH programs and supports. They can also provide contact information for local community and national resources.

Please note: This is not a hotline or a crisis service, but is a phone line for families and individuals affected by mental illness/emotional disorders.

Taking Care of You

The Importance of Self-Care - Now More than Ever!

"To be able to care for the people you love, you must first take care of yourself. It’s like the advice we’re given on airplanes: put on your own oxygen mask before trying to help someone else with theirs. Taking care of yourself is a valid goal on its own, and it helps you support the people you love.

Caregivers who pay attention to their own physical and emotional health are better able to handle the challenges of supporting someone with mental illness. They adapt to changes, build strong relationships and recover from setbacks. The ups and downs in your family member’s illness can have a huge impact on you. Improving your relationship with yourself by maintaining your physical and mental health makes you more resilient, helping you weather hard times and enjoy good ones."

Click here to read the full article.

What can NAMI NH do for you?

NAMI New Hampshire is a grassroots organization working to improve the quality of life for all by providing support, education and advocacy for people affected by mental illness and suicide.

Comprised of a network of affiliate chapters and support groups, staff and volunteers, NAMI NH provides information, education and support to all families and communities affected by mental illness and suicide.

For more information, visit the NAMI NH website .

NAMI New Hampshire| 603-225-5359 | 800-242-6264 InfoLine | [email protected] | NAMINH.org