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What are Severe Mental Illnesses? Mental illnesses are biologically-based brain disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depression, and panic disorder. Research suggests genetics and chemical malfunctioning of the brain as causes. Mental illnesses are not caused by character flaws or poor child rearing.
Information-Advocacy-Referrals NAMI-WM provides free information, advocacy and referrals relevant to legal matters, insurance benefits, children's services, medications, emergency/crisis services, mental health providers, doctors, rehabilitation services, descriptions of mental illnesses, treatments available, research findings, and much more.
Open Your Mind Campaign Many people suffering from mental illness and their families, do not seek help because of the stigma mental illness carries in our society. This stigma is translated into discrimination such as under-funding for services and unequal insurance coverage. NAMI-WM tries to erase stigma through its Iris Project, annual Walkathon, and through public education in schools, businesses, colleges, police workshops, civic groups, religious groups, legislators, and the media. NAMI-WM provides free speakers, literature, and videos. Contact us.
Call Today for Help and Hope NAMI of Western Mass
(413) 786-9139
Toll Free in Western Mass only 1-800-295-2121 e-mail: information@namiwm.org
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