Many Americans struggle with conditions that affect their ability to cope, make wise choices, and determine reality. They have schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. As a matter of fact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) data shows 6 percent of Americans suffer from a serious mental illness thus affecting 20 percent of US families. That equates to more than 5,000 Floyd County residents having a mental illness. That’s a significant number, and with the economy in the pits, many others could just be on the brink of being added to this number.

If you think that you might have a mental illness, or if someone in your family does, there is help for here in Rome. The Rome affiliate of NAMI is a grassroots organization that strives to educate, support and advocate for individuals who have mental illnesses. NAMI has weekly support groups for family members and individuals with mental illness. There are also free classes that give a wealth of information on mental illness and ways to cope.

Since May is mental health month, make it the month that you will come forward, face the facts, and make your life better. Call me at 706-232-4607 for more information.

JIM MOORE, Rome