NAMI Support Groups are widely available and provide peer-based support for communities across the country. Despite the widespread availability, empirical evidence is needed to understand the effectiveness of the NAMI Support Group model. To that end, NORC at the University of Chicago in partnership with NAMI, conducted a comprehensive mixed-methods evaluation of NAMI Support Groups.

This presentation addresses a professional practice gap by sharing data on who attends these groups; what drives engagement; how facilitation, access, and structure influence participant experiences; and how support groups impact participants’ mental health and wellbeing.

Survey results and focus‑group insights will equip professionals with evidence‑informed considerations to improve support group delivery, enhance facilitator effectiveness, and better align group offerings with participant expectations and resource needs.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the primary motivations that bring individuals to NAMI Support Groups and what keeps them coming back.
2. Examine participant satisfaction with NAMI Support Groups and the impact on participants’ mental health, wellbeing, and ability to support themselves and their loved ones.
3. Describe key components for successful NAMI Support Group facilitation. 
4. Identify common challenges faced by affiliates and program leaders in implementing and sustaining support groups.