DeKalb program offers support for caregivers of mentally ill

A DeKalb County mental health organization is offering a free 12-week course for family and other caregivers of people with serious mental illness.

The program from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI DeKalb, will cover current information, medication and research about illnesses such as schizophrenia and major depression as well as strategies for handling crises and relapse. The course also offers care for caregivers, including coping skills and ways to find outside support.

The program begins Aug. 26 at DeKalb Medical Center near Decatur.