Mental health support in Kern County

As l think about what has transpired since the pandemic, my heart aches. Where is the empathy, the compassion and understanding for individuals impacted by mental health challenges? Where can a person go to be heard and not be judged or stigmatized?

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making life better for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. We believe in hope, inclusion, empowerment, compassion and fairness. NAMI has been helping individuals and families for 45 years.

WE are still here!

NAMI is and always will be about helping and supporting people. We want people to know, they are not alone. We understand because we have a loved one with a mental illness or are living with mental health challenges. We want our communities to be more empathetic of those who need us.

NAMI offers free education classes and support groups for family members and individuals. Our signature programs are designed to help individuals understand themselves and their loved ones’ recovery journey. Notably, we also offer anti-stigma presentations for community members. All of our programs are peer-led and offered at no-cost to anyone who needs help.

NAMI classes are available via Zoom during the fall/spring. For more information, visit namikerncounty.org, or email [email protected].

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988. Trained counselors are available 24/7. If you just need someone to talk to, a listening ear and a friendly voice, you can call us at (661) 247-5426 (9 a.m.-6 p.m.).

NAMI HelpLine is available Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Call (1-800) 950-6264, or text “HelpLine” to 62640.

No stigma. No judgment. Just support from people who care.