High Point clients see light at the end of tunnel in NAMI program

High Point Partial Care clients recently got to see “the light at the end of the tunnel.” That was how a High Point counselor described the effect on clients of a two-day “In Our Own Voice” program provided by National Alliance on Mental Illness. The NAMI presenters recounted their own histories of mental health problems and how, having come through treatment, they now lead full and rewarding lives.

The presentations included videos that explained the symptoms of various forms of mental illness, but the greatest benefit to High Point’s clients came from the personal stories of presenters. With counseling and in some cases medications, they have started families and careers.  One presenter detailed her on coping skill, which include a holistic combination of diet, health and meditation.

One NAMI presenter described her co-occurrence fall into heroin addiction. Another spoke of her bi-polar disorder, but she is not stable and working a farm with her husband as well as going to school. Her studies are in the mental health field and she intends to help fill in some of the cracks in the treatment system that can make it difficult to access appropriate care.

Nearly all the clients were inspired by the presentations. One client shared about what she needs to do for herself: be attuned each every day to her one’s moods and vigilant about her medications.

Treatment at High Point includes a host of groups, case management, medication management, which are often complemented by programs such as the one NAMI presnted at the Flemington facility.