Who We Are

We are some of the many people in Santa Cruz County who have a relative or friend with a serious mental illness - a child, spouse, parent or sibling. We also are people who have a diagnosis of a mental illness. We have joined together to provide mutual support and information, and to work together for changes in the mental health system. YOU ARE NOT ALONE, come join us.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Santa Cruz County is part of the grass-roots, non-profit, national NAMI organization founded in 1979 by family members of people with mental illness. We are also an affiliate of NAMI California. NAMI has established itself as the most formidable and helpful grassroots mental health organization in the country, due to the dedication and steadfast commitment to NAMI’s mission by grassroots advocates.

3 Fold Mission:

Support

people with mental illnesses and their families by helping them find coping mechanisms for their daily struggle with brain disorders. NAMI-SCC offers support groups and networking opportunities where families can share experience and knowledge.

Educate

people who have mental illness, their families, and the general public about mental illness with the goal of dispelling ignorance and stigma. NAMI-SCC offers excellent classes for family members and clients. NAMI-SCC offers referral services to community resources.

Advocate 

for more research and an improved system of mental health services across the nation, and in our own Santa Cruz County. Advocate for legislative efforts. Advocate for inclusion of families in care and treatment of their relatives. Advocate for elimination of stigma and prejudice.