May is Mental Health Month.  1 in 5 people live with mental illness, a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, behavior or mood.  These conditions deeply impact day-to-day living and may also affect the ability to relate to others.  This can be isolating and leave people unsure of where to turn for help.  Social distancing, job loss and the stress of uncertainty make these feelings worse and often overwhelming.

Founded in 1979, the National Alliance on Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. “NAMI Northern Virginia” – Northern Virginia’s local NAMI affiliate – started as a vision held by a group of passionate people with ‘lived’ experience regarding mental health conditions, who recognized the power of peer support for individuals and family members.

At NAMI Northern Virginia, individuals and families receive support, learn recovery skills, and find resources from people who have “been there.”  We help ensure that our neighbors, family, friends, and community members have access to essential programs and support, at no cost.  In past years, NAMI Northern Virginia’s programs have reached over 10,000 people (including 3,700 youth).

In our everyday lives, simply showing compassion and empathy through acts of kindness gives support and comfort.  Sending flowers to a family member, friend, neighbor, co-worker or any member of the community, helps maintain a human connection and reminds people that they are not alone.  Researchers have found “that people who surround themselves with plant life and other forms of natural beauty, indoors and out, experience emotional and mental health benefits that have a positive impact on their social, psychological, physical, cognitive, environmental, and spiritual well-being.”

NAMI Northern Virginia and Karin’s Florist are partnering for this purpose.

During the month of May, Karin’s Florist donated 5% of the product proceeds from the “Glorious Gerbera” arrangement directly to NAMI Northern Virginia.  These essential funds maintain education and support programs, such as our Virtual Support Groups, which provide critical recovery/coping skills and education.  Thank you for your support.