NAMI SLO County Mental Health Education & Support

Mental illness is extremely common. A significant percentage of people will - or have - experienced mental health issues.

NAMI statistics state that 1 in 5 people will be diagnosed with a mental illness in their lifetime. When that happens, people can feel desperate and alone. 

NAMI SLO County brings together people affected by mental illness, with free education, resources, and support, including: 

Family to Family: A free education program providing up-to-date information on mental illnesses, their causes, and treatments available, as well as help and coping tools for the caregiver or loved one.

Support Groups: A peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. 

Ending the Silence: Ending The Silence is an award-winning, on-site school presentation designed to provide teens and young adults the opportunity to learn about the signs of mental illness and ways to seek help. 

In Our Own Voice: In Our Own Voice is a free presentation that can be delivered in a 40, 60, or 90-minute session. Presenters provide a personal perspective on their lived experiences with a mental health condition.

NAMI On Campus: NAMI on Campus clubs provide students with peer-run mental health organizations on campus. We currently have a NAMI On Campus club at Pioneer Valley High School in Santa Maria. 

Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training for local law-enforcement, providing police officers more tools to do their job safely and effectively, helping keep people with mental illness out of jail and in treatment. 


NAMI San Luis Obispo County is dedicated to the eradication of mental illnesses and to improving the quality of life for persons of all ages who are affected by mental illness. Your donation will help us continue this important work in our community.