Mental Health Awareness Month
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has served as a national movement to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and advocate for the millions of Americans affected by mental health conditions. Each May, we are reminded that mental health is an essential part of overall well-being—and that support, understanding, and connection matter.
This May, NAMI DuPage invites you to take action. Join us in raising awareness, starting conversations, and supporting those impacted by mental health conditions. Whether you attend a program, share resources, or simply check in with someone you care about, every action makes a difference.
Explore our events, access resources, and be part of a community committed to hope, healing, and support. Together, we can create a future where mental health is prioritized—and no one has to navigate their journey alone.
Mental Health Awareness Month Presentations
Join us for a series of engaging and informative presentations designed to support your mental health journey. Space is limited—register early to reserve your spot.
Designed for adults 18+.
For Individuals
Mental Health is a Super Power
Behind every smile, every role, every “I’m fine” — there’s a whole person with a story worth knowing. In this candid session, our speaker pulls back the mask to share what their mental health journey has truly looked like, and how that experience became their greatest strength. Because vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s the foundation of genuine connection, healing, and resilience. Come ready to see mental health in a whole new light.
WHEN: Thursday, May 7, 2026
TIME: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
WHERE: Virtual
Peer Panel Discussion: From Struggle to Strength
What does it really look like to walk through darkness and find your way to the other side? Join us for an honest, courageous conversation with people who’ve been there. Our peer panelists will share their personal journeys of recovery — the hard parts, the turning points, and what led them to become Recovery Support Specialists dedicated to walking alongside others. This is a space for real stories, real hope, and a reminder that lived experience is one of the most powerful tools in mental health support.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 12, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
WHERE: Virtual
Women's Wellness Workshop
So many women are experts at showing up for everyone else — and last on the list when it comes to their own wellbeing. This workshop is your permission slip to change that. We’ll explore practical tools for managing stress, the art of setting boundaries without apology, and what it actually looks like to make your mental health a priority — not a luxury. Whether you’re running on empty or just looking to reconnect with yourself, this space was made for you.
WHEN: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
Hearing Loss and Mental Health
Hearing loss affects millions of people — and its impact reaches far beyond the ears. Social isolation, communication fatigue, anxiety, and depression are common experiences for those navigating life with hearing loss, yet the connection between hearing health and mental health is rarely part of the conversation. This session shines a light on that relationship, offering insight, resources, and a reminder that the challenges of hearing loss deserve to be seen, heard, and supported.
WHEN: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
For Parents of Youth
Mental Health After High School
The shift from being a teenager to becoming a young adult can be incredibly challenging. Adjusting to adult responsibilities often puts a strain on a young person’s mental health. This presentation explores the many pressures that come with this stage of life, like making big decisions about college or work, choosing whether to stay at home or move out, and dealing with the stress of financial independence. These life changes can feel overwhelming and may negatively impact mental well-being.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
Supporting Our Youth
This family-focused presentation begins with key statistics and warning signs that may indicate a mental health condition in youth. Through a variety of scenarios, we’ll explore whether certain teen behaviors are typical or signs of something more serious. The session includes practical guidance, drawn from Youth Mental Health First Aid, on how to approach your child if you’re concerned, as well as what steps to take in a mental health crisis. We’ll wrap up by sharing helpful resources for ongoing support.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 12, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
Empowered Parents Toolkit: Hospital & Beyond
Navigating a youth mental health crisis can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. This workshop gives parents practical tools for every step: from hospital care, choosing the right providers, and managing medications, to advocating at school, communicating effectively with your youth, and supporting them with patience on their journey to wellness.
Leave feeling confident, informed, and empowered to help your child thrive
Please join us for this essential workshop on Zoom.
WHEN: Thursday, May 21, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
Stress Less
This workshop defines what stress is and the different types of stress we all feel, which can vary from happy to traumatic. A big question is, why do we get stressed? What causes our minds to stress? Stress has negative impacts on your mental health and physical health. This workshop offers tips on how to manage stress as well as everyday coping strategies and most importantly, when to ask for help.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 26, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
For the Community
Community Leader Series - As We See It
“Mental Health in the Workplace”
What are you seeing across your workplace—and how does it connect to others?
Join community leaders from business, nonprofits, schools, law enforcement, and government for a focused, cross-sector conversation at NAMI DuPage. Together, we’ll share insights, identify common challenges, and explore how we can better support employees, families, and our broader community.
Featuring Geri Kerger, who will highlight key mental health trends impacting workplaces today.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
WHERE: NAMI DuPage
TIME: 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Mental Health Essentials
This presentation from NAMI DuPage provides an overview of mental health, including its importance, common conditions like anxiety and depression, and key statistics. It highlights the impact of mental health on daily life, the value of early intervention, and the importance of reducing stigma. The presentation also outlines support services, resources, and programs available to individuals and families in the community.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 12, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual
NEW DATE! The Mental Health Mailbox - Live Podcast
A live podcast where you drive the conversation. Submit your questions on anything mental health related and our knowledgeable hosts will answer them in real time. Whether you are struggling, curious, or supporting someone you love, this is your safe space to ask, learn, and heal.
WHEN: Monday, May 18, 2026 (NEW DATE!)
TIME: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
WHERE: Virtual
Yoga Class
Join us for a free yoga session!
WHEN: Tuesday, May 26, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
WHERE: NAMI DuPage
Community Center
117 N. County Farm Rd.
Wheaton, IL 60187
Tardive Dyskinesia Webinar
Join us for an informative and engaging webinar on tardive dyskinesia, a condition that can develop as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications. This session will feature a clinical expert who will provide an overview of symptoms, causes, and current treatment options, along with practical insights for individuals and families. Attendees will also hear from someone with lived experience, offering a personal perspective on navigating this condition. The webinar will conclude with a Q&A session, providing an opportunity to ask questions and deepen understanding.
WHEN: TBA
TIME: TBA
WHERE: TBA
You Matter Too: Understanding Caregiver Burnout
Please join us for this essential workshop on Zoom.
WHEN: TBA
TIME: TBA
WHERE: TBA
For Family Members
VOICES OF HOPE: FAMILY PERSPECTIVES
Join us in person at NAMI DuPage to hear a candid and inspiring panel where families and individuals open up about the real challenges—and the real victories—of supporting a loved one with mental health conditions. Hear what’s helped them, lessons they’ve learned, and how to stay hopeful, connected, and resilient.
Who you’ll hear from:
- Someone living with a mental health condition
- A family member supporting a loved one
- NAMI Family Support Group & Connections facilitators
- A Family-to-Family teacher
Bring your questions—our panelists will share helpful tips during the Q&A portion.
LISTEN, LEARN, AND LEAVE WITH RENEWED HOPE, PRACTICAL TOOLS, AND THE REMINDER THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
When: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
WHERE: Community Center
117 N. County Farm Rd.
Wheaton, IL 60187
RSVP for our Open House!
More details coming soon.
WHEN: Friday, May 29, 2026
TIME: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: NAMI DuPage
Community Center
117 N. County Farm Rd.
Wheaton, IL 60187
Catch Up on Past Workshops!
Peer Talk
Supporting Our Youth
Stress & Burnout
Building Our Wellness & Recovery
Balancing It All: Mental Wellness Strategies for Women
Mental Health Awareness Month Panel
Guardianship of Disabled Adults
Understanding Special Needs Trust
Social Security Disability