NAMI Ending the Silence is an engaging presentation that includes information on youth mental health and a young adult living with a mental health condition who shares their own story of recovery. Presentations are offered at no cost to schools and organizations supporting middle and high school students. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain an understanding of an often misunderstood topic. Through this dialogue, we can help grow the movement to end stigma. To request more information or book a presentation, please contact us at info@namimultnomah.org or 503-228-5692.
Why this matters:
1 in 6 youth aged 6–17 experience a mental health condition each year
50% of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10–14
NAMI Ending the Silence helps students:
Recognize the warning signs of mental health conditions
Understand that help is available and recovery is possible
Learn how to support a friend or reach out to a trusted adult
Reduce stigma through real stories and honest conversations
NAMI Ending the Silence for Families
1-hour presentation for adults with middle or high school aged youth that includes mental health warning signs, facts and statistics, how to talk with your child and how to work with school staff.
NAMI Ending the Silence for Staff
1-hour presentation for school/organization staff members that covers mental health warning signs, facts and statistics, how to approach students, and how to work with families.
what people are saying
“I’m really grateful and glad that you talked to us. I often feel very alone or weird because many kids my age don’t understand. But, now I’m sure they would be more supportive of me.” - Student
“Thank you, Renee, for coming to my school and sharing your story. You have changed my life forever. The things you explained about your depression relate to how I feel. When I got home, I immediately talked to my parents and hopefully I will get some help.” - Student
“It is amazing what just one day, one talk can do. You never really know what’s going on in the brain of any particular student.” - Teacher
“Recently parents from two different families reached out to me after their children had seen NAMI Ending the Silence. Both were thanking me for the work we do along with being grateful to know about us as a resource. They were able to have very meaningful and open conversations with their children/students and happy they are getting this information in the school setting.” - ETS Program Leader
To ensure a successful presentation, we request the following:
Submit your request at least three weeks in advance.
A minimum of 15 audience members must participate.
Presentation space with a computer connected to Wi-Fi, a projector with a screen/wall, and speakers.
To request more information or to book a presentation, please contact us at info@namimultnomah.org or 503-228-5692.
Volunteer and become an Ending the Silence presenter. Share your story and help us end the stigma surrounding mental illness.