NAMI Southwestern Illinois starts support group

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Dear Editor:

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southwestern Illinois is starting a new monthly support group for individuals with mental illnesses, family members and caregivers, on the 3rd Tuesday of the month, January 25th, 7- 8:30 PM, Hope Church, 200 Dapron Dr., Belleville. This meeting will be in addition to a support meeting on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the PSOP Building, 204 N. Church St.

NAMI support meetings are especially noteworthy at a time when state budget cuts are making it more difficult to access timely and appropriate treatment and services. Individuals who attend them learn they are not alone in their struggles with these difficult disorders and that they can freely share their stories with others who understand. People who "have been there" often have information to share about navigating the system that others find beneficial.

NAMI SW Illinois wants people in Madison and St. Clair and adjoining counties to know that NAMI, a grassroots organization with affiliates throughout the United State, is here to help by providing support, education and advocacy. We invite people to call us at (618) 798-9788, and visit our website namiswi.org for more information.

Sincerely, Patricia Rudloff

Support Group Project Leader

NAMI Southwestern Illinois

Gateway Regional Medical Center

Granite City, IL