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Episode 13 – Empowering Connections: The Impact of Peer Support in Mental Health Recovery

In this episode, the hosts and guest discuss the role of peers in supporting individuals with mental health challenges. They highlight the importance of peers who have lived experience and can provide guidance and support based on their own recovery journeys. The...

Episode 12 – Proactive Recovery: Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience

In this episode, Justin and Mark discuss the differences between being proactive and reactive in recovery. They emphasize the importance of transitioning from a mindset of dealing with problems as they arise to being prepared for potential challenges. They highlight...

Episode 11 – Embracing Forgiveness: Navigating the Path to Healing and Growth

In this episode, Justin and Mark discuss the complex topic of forgiveness. They explore the challenges and misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our own humanity and mistakes. They discuss the fear of opening up to more pain...

Episode 10 – Shame Unveiled: Navigating Mental Health and Recovery with Compassion and Growth

In this episode of Healing Minds: Stories of Resiliency and Recovery, hosts Justin and Marc delve deep into the often overlooked topic of shame and its profound impact on mental health and addiction recovery. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, they...

Episode 9 – Nourishing Recovery: The Mental Health Diet

This episode explores the connection between nutrition, mental health, and recovery. The hosts discuss the importance of diet in supporting mental well-being and how the food we eat can impact our mood, energy levels, and cravings. They share personal experiences of...

Episode 8 – Mind and Body Harmony: The Role of Physical Well-being in Recovery

In this episode, Justin and Mark discuss the connection between the mind and body in recovery. They emphasize the importance of physical well-being and how it impacts mental health. They highlight the challenge of being comfortable in one's body and the role of...

Episode 7 – Part 2: Journey of Resilience: Finding Purpose in Recovery

In this 2-part episode, Eric Metcalf, Director of Peer Workforce Development at NAMI DuPage, shares his profound journey of finding purpose in recovery amidst challenges like military deployment and addiction. He emphasizes the pivotal role of purpose in sustaining...

Episode 6 – Part 1: Journey of Resilience: Finding Purpose in Recovery

Part 1: In this 2-part episode, Eric Metcalf, Director of Peer Workforce Development at NAMI DuPage, shares his profound journey of finding purpose in recovery amidst challenges like military deployment and addiction. He emphasizes the pivotal role of purpose in...

Episode 5 – Recovery, Relationships, and Resilience: Navigating the Path to Healing & Connection

In this episode, Nicholas Berry joins Marc and Justin to discuss relationships and recovery. Nicholas shares his journey of recovery, including his experiences with addiction, trauma, and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of building a relationship with...

Episode 4 – Shadows Within: Navigating the Journey Through Loss

In this episode, we delve into the raw and honest narrative, shedding light on the challenges faced by both the individual and those who stand beside them. Through the guest Kurt and the host's accounts and shared experiences, we aim to break the silence and stigma...

Winter Appeal – 2023

Dear Friend, Do you recall a time when you felt utterly out of place? I vividly remember my kindergarten friend, Anna, who arrived at school wearing a meticulously sewn witch's costume. Unfortunately, her sleep-deprived mother sent her in costume on October 30th, a...

Episode 3 – Unbreakable Bonds: Maggie’s Journey Through a Son’s Struggle

In this profoundly moving episode, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Maggie, a resilient mother whose unwavering love and support became the anchor for her son during his courageous battle with a co-occurring disorder of mental health and substance use. Join...

Episode 2 – Meet Your Host: Justin’s Story

In this episode, Justin shares his gripping story of overcoming alcohol addiction and rebuilding his life. From the depths of struggle to a thriving family and career, Justin's journey is a testament to resilience and redemption. Join us as Justin opens up about the...

Episode 1 – Meet Your Host: Marc’s Story

Step into the raw narrative of Marc's story as he courageously opens up about his tumultuous battle with mental health challenges and opioid addiction. In this podcast episode, your host, Marc, shares his unfiltered story, providing an intimate glimpse into the...

Fall Appeal – 2023

Dear Friend, Each day at NAMI DuPage, we confront the harsh reality of what the United States Surgeon General has labeled "the defining public health crisis of our time" – the growing mental health needs of our youth. Recent statistics are deeply concerning. It's...

Spring Gala 2023

Dear Friend, We hope you are having a happy and healthy start to 2023. We at NAMI DuPage work tirelessly to support the community's mental health needs, reaching nearly 20,000 individuals annually. On May 6, we will come together for our Shine a Light Gala at the...

GivingTuesday2021

These one-hour youth programs have transformed lives for participants and those who love them. Last year, more than 14,000 DuPage area students participated in one of NAMI DuPage’s three mental health programs above. A donation of $10 will cover the cost of a...

Light in the Darkness

Dear Friends, For the past 36 years, NAMI DuPage has brought light to thousands who were experiencing the darkness of mental illness. There have been many challenges, particularly over the last 18 months, but every time I felt overwhelmed my thoughts turned to YOU—our...

A New Addition to NAMI DuPage

Eric Metcalf, NAMI DuPage’s Director of Peer Support Services, describes his work with NAMI as more than a job, he says it’s a calling. Years ago, Eric believed that he was bound to enter the world of business, but has instead found himself in the role of peer...

Activities Returning In-person

GOOD NEWS! We are adjusting for most activities to be back in-person! Some Support Groups will remain virtual. Please check your program’s page for current information! Click HERE to see what’s happening this week! Find this document every week on our homepage, under...