National Alliance on Mental Illness

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a United States-based nonprofit organization^[1] originally founded as a grassroots group by family members of people diagnosed with mental illness. NAMI identifies its mission as "providing advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives" and its vision as "a world where all people affected by mental illness live healthy, fulfilling lives supported by a community that cares".^[2] NAMI offers classes and trainings for people living with mental illnesses, their families, community members, and professionals, including what is termed psychoeducation, or education about mental illness.^[3][4] NAMI holds regular events which combine fundraising for the organization and education, including Mental Illness Awareness Week and NAMIWalks.^[2]

Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, NAMI has around 1,000 state and local affiliates and is represented in all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.^[5] Funding comes from individual contributions, corporate sponsorships, events, and grants.^[6] NAMI publishes a magazine around twice a year called The Advocate.^[7] NAMI also runs a HelpLine five days a week.^[8]