About NAMI IOWA
A non-profit tax-exempt organization and affiliate of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
What is NAMI?
It is a grassroots organization founded in Madison, Wisconsin, in September 1979, by fewer than 300 family members. It is a self-help organization made up of families of persons with Mental Illness, of those persons themselves, and of friends. Since the need is so great and support of each other is so important in working with family members, the organization has grown like wildfire. Now, over 25 years after that Madison, Wisconsin meeting, there are more than 1,200 self-help support groups nationwide with more than 220,000 members.
What is available in Iowa?
NAMI IOWA was formed in 1984. There are 20 support groups in the state and other information contacts located around the state. Our office provides families with support, systems advocacy, and information services.
What is the difference between Mental Illness and Mental Retardation?
The Mentally Retarded have a diminished intellectual capacity usually present since birth. Those with Mental Illnesses are usually of normal intelligence although they may have difficulty performing at a normal level due to their illness.
Who are the seriously mentally ill adults?
One out of every four families has a member who suffers from a Serious Mental Illness. It affects the rich and the poor, the urban dweller and the rural population, people from all walks of life.
Children with Severe Emotional Disturbance (SED)
A functional impairment, which substantially interferes with, or limits a child or adolescent role; or functioning in family, school, or community activities; or from achieving or maintaining one or more developmentally appropriate social, behavioral, cognitive, communicative, or adaptive skills.
What is mental illness?
It is a “no fault” brain disease. The brain is part of the body; it too can become ill. It is good to know that more progress has been made in research of the brain. We can be proud that the University of Iowa is in the forefront of this research.
Are there medications available for the disease?
Yes. At this time there are medications that reduce the symptoms markedly for most people but do not cure the illness.
Why is mental illness becoming a major issue?
Mentally ill persons occupy more hospital beds than persons suffering from Cancer, Lung and Heart Diseases combined. This is a widespread illness that wishful thinking cannot drive away.
Click here for a list of Affiliate Presidents / Board of Directors.
Click here for a list of the Executive Committee members.