LISBON — After a period of inactivity, NAMI Columbiana County is making a strong comeback, bringing vital mental health education, support, and advocacy back to the community. The local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is re-establishing itself with new leadership, new programming, and a renewed commitment to providing resources for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.

Kristy Munyon, the newly appointed chair of NAMI Columbiana County, is leading efforts to expand services and strengthen support networks in the area. One of the organization’s first priorities is training facilitators to offer two nationally recognized educational programs: Family-to-Family, an eight-week course for loved ones of individuals with mental health conditions, and Homefront, a similar program designed specifically for families of veterans and service members.

“These programs provide families with the knowledge and tools they need to support their loved ones while also taking care of their own well-being,” Munyon said. “We want people to know they are not alone.”

In addition to educational programs, NAMI Columbiana County is launching two peer-led support groups. The Family Support Group will offer a safe space for relatives and caregivers, while the Connection Support Group will provide individuals living with mental illness an opportunity to share experiences and build connections.

To keep the community engaged, NAMI Columbiana County will hold monthly membership meetings on the third Thursday of each month at 2 p.m. at the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board office, located at 27 Vista Drive in Lisbon. These meetings will provide updates on local mental health initiatives, training opportunities, and ways to get involved.

Membership is open to anyone interested in supporting mental health advocacy and education. Individual memberships are $40 per year, household memberships are $60 per year, and an open-door membership is available for $5 per year for those with financial limitations. Members receive access to state and national NAMI resources, advocacy training, and discounts on NAMI events.

As it rebuilds, NAMI Columbiana County is working toward organizing community events, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns. The organization also hopes to collaborate with local agencies, schools, and healthcare providers to strengthen the mental health network in Columbiana County.

“We want to make sure that anyone who needs support can find it,” Munyon said. “Mental health affects everyone, and our goal is to create a community where no one has to struggle alone.”

NAMI Columbiana County provides education, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Supported by the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board, NAMI works to ensure community members have access to vital mental health resources.

For more information, visit https://www.ccmhrsb.org/community-resources/NAMI-Columbiana-County or contact Kristy Munyon at namicolumbianacounty@gmail.com or 330-424-0195 ext. 114.

NAMI Columbiana County can also be found on Facebook at @NAMIColumbianaCountyOH for updates and announcements.