We are a network of young people who are dedicated to improving the quality of life for emerging adults by raising awareness about mental health and suicide through our free education, support, and advocacy programs at the state and local levels.
Please note: Due to the global coronavirus pandemic, all of our young adult groups are meeting on Zoom. Interested in joining a group? See below for our virtual meetups!
NAMI Young Adult Connection Group is a peer-led support group for any young adult (ages 18-29) who experiences mental health challenges or experiencing challenges as a young person. Participants will gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by trained leaders who’ve been there. All of our groups focus on managing mental wellness through thought-provoking activities, recovery skill building, goal planning, socialization, and supportive discussion. Young Adults are encouraged to share their stories and insights, but are not required to.
For questions and information about the Young Adult Connection Community, email Valerie Lepoutre, Manager of Peer Initiatives, Education, and Training VLepoutre@namict.org
Young Adult Connection Community Check-In
Monday
Time: 3:30PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register Here
Rainbow Connections – an LGBTQ+ Community Group
First and Third Tuesdays
Time: 6:00PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register Here
Creative Expressions Group
Second and Fourth Tuesdays
Time: 6:00PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register Here
Self-Discovery: Young Adult Connection Community Group
Thursdays
Time: 6:00PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register Here
Young Adult Game Night
Fridays
Time: 6:00PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register Here
Leadership Opportunities
Young Adult Connection Group Facilitator
If you are a young adult (ages 18-29) in recovery from a mental health condition, trauma, and/or other life-interrupting challenges, please consider volunteering with us. Learn the skills and understanding to set up and facilitate a NAMI Connecticut Young Adult Connection peer support group. In our training, facilitators will:
• Meet and connect with other young people
• Strengthen peer support and leadership skills
• Practice group facilitation skills and managing challenging situations
• Enhance trauma awareness and self-care strategies
• Recognize the signs of suicide and how to respond
• Learn the basics in planning, promoting, launching, and establishing a NAMI Young Adult Connection Group
Hope in Action
In addition to our groups, NAMI Young Adult Connection Community members are encouraged to participate in our social-engagement events (nature hikes, media nights, game nights, block parties, etc.) and Hope in Action events (book drives, music festivals, clean-up projects, awareness walks, etc.), to support their own healing journey and/or in honor of the people they’ve lost.
Helpful Sites
Turning Point CT Developed by young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues as a way to reach out to other young people looking for information and support.
The Mighty an online platform that publishes real stories by real people facing real challenges
Meetup: An online social networking portal that facilitates offline group meetings in various localities around the world. Meetup allows members to find and join groups unified by a common interest. Click here to find all state-wide NAMI Young Adult Connection Community Groups.
Facebook Group:
An online NAMI Connecticut peer-run support community Facebook Group for young people living with mental health challenges.