The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Butler County has adapted support services and resources since the coronavirus pandemic hit the region this spring.

With winter and the holidays approaching, NAMI Butler County Executive Director Donna Lamison reminds county residents they're not facing challenges on their own.

“You can reach out to someone,” Lamison said. “You're not alone.”

NAMI Butler County offers Family Support Group on the first Saturday and third Monday of every month.

Led by peers, the group is open to anyone whose life has been touched by mental illness.

Although it's historically an in-person gathering, pandemic precautions have forced NAMI operations to be conducted mostly online.

“We have virtual support groups going on now,” Lamison said. “(Attendance) started moving up in May or June.”

In-person Family Support Group was conducted on a walk-in basis. Being held virtually means participants must preregister to help NAMI collect contact information.

NAMI is also preparing for the Family-to-Family Program this spring. The eight-week program educates those who have friends or family dealing with mental illness. Registration is open now on the NAMI Butler County website.

Lamison said it's important for people to remember they're not alone, even though they may be isolated.

Feeling alone this time of year isn't unheard of, according to Lamison.

Still, she believes NAMI is seeing such a demand for services this year due mainly to the circumstances caused by the pandemic.

“I think COVID has certainly played a large part,” Lamison said. “Human beings are social beings.”

Participation has “waxed and waned” since the sudden increase of participants NAMI saw this spring, according to Lamison. Family Support Group averages about 15 people per session, according to Lamison.

She said virtual group meetings are preferred by some visitors more than others.

No matter how many people attend meetings regularly, however, Lamison said it's important to let people know NAMI continues adapting and offering resources.

“The majority are very happy that something is available,” Lamison said.

Lamison said one of the most surprising things about this year for her has been how willing people are to reach out to others — even when things are chaotic and unpredictable.

Lamison said that's an important thing to remember.

“In the end, all we have is each other,” Lamison said.

The NAMI Butler County office is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors are asked to schedule an appointment by calling 724-431-0069.

A list of resources is available online at namibutler.org. Information can also be obtained by emailing info@namibutler.org.

NAMI's National Information Helpline is 1-800-950-6264.