Due to the COVID 19 virus, all NAMI North Central support groups are on hold.  Please be sure to contact the various NAMI support group facilitators, as all NAMI support groups have gone online or virtual. Here are the names and contact info for our various groups. CLINTON: Edie Scott, (978) 345-2214, LEOMINSTER: Family support group - Paul, (978) 514-2942, Connections Recovery support group - Chelsea, (978) 870-7682, GARDNER: Cortney, (508) 331-2921

SUPPORT GROUPS

For Individuals with Mental Illness:
NAMI Connection Recovery Support Groups are free, confidential, and facilitated by NAMI-trained peers.  Individuals in the group learn from hearing the challenges and successes of others.  The Connection Support Group follows a structured model to ensure that each individual in the group has an opportunity to be heard.  By sharing experiences in a safe and confidential setting, the individual gains hope and develops relationships. The group encourages empathy, productive discussion, and a sense of community.  The group relies on basic principles that are read at every meeting:
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  • See the individual first, not the illness
  • Recognize that mental illnesses are medical illnesses that may have environmental triggers
  • Understand that mental illnesses are traumatic events
  • Aim for better coping skills
  • Find strength in sharing experiences
  • Reject stigma and not tolerate discrimination
  • Not judge anyone’s pain
  • Forgive ourselves and reject guilt
  • Embrace humor as healthy
  • Accept that we cannot solve every problem
  • Work for a better future in a realistic way
  • Never give up hope
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LEOMINSTER

Every Thursday of the month, 7:00-8:30 PM
Health Alliance Hospital
60 Hospital Rd.
Leominster, MA 01453
​Contact: Chelsea Gaudet
(978) 870-7682
​cgaudet11@gmail.com
GARDNER
Every Tuesday of the month, 7:00-8:30 PM
Heywood Hospital Dining Room Conference Room B (inside the cafeteria)
242 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440
​Contact: Courtney 508-331-2921
Clinton

2nd and 4th Fridays, 6:30-8:30 PM 
Conference Rooms A & B, 2nd floor
​Clinton Hospital
201 Highland St., Clinton, MA 01510
Contact: Edie   scottygirl2@gmail.com
Leominster Hospital Maps for parking and location of conference rooms.