NAMI in the Lobby Columbus

At the South Central Indiana chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), we have long heard individuals remark that they wish they had known about mental health resources and programming sooner. Parents and caregivers, especially, have expressed difficulty in finding support and resources when their loved ones are going through a mental health crisis.

At NAMI in the Lobby, we want to ensure that no one has to go through it alone.

NAMI in the Lobby is a peer-run service program at Centerstone in Columbus where trained volunteers are available to provide a listening ear and mental health resources. NAMI in the Lobby provides free resources including guidance on navigating the mental healthcare system, lethal means protection, mental health education, support groups, self-care, and more. (To learn more about the program resources, click here).

As a peer-run program, volunteers have lived experience with mental health crises and can offer an empathetic ear as well as a wealth of knowledge. Many table visitors have expressed deep appreciation for the time, knowledge, and compassion that volunteers share. Volunteers are present at Centerstone on Marr Street in Columbus twice a month. To confirm their availability, call NAMI South Central at 812-373-6055.

NAMI in the Lobby resources can be accessed at any time from this page or by emailing the Program Manager.

Why did NAMI in the Lobby start?

NAMI in the Lobby was first established at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health in response to the growing youth mental health crisis in Indiana.

Concerns about mental health, especially among young people, have intensified in recent years. According to the National Institute of Health, approximately 20% of youth ages 3-17 in the United States experience a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder. In Indiana, the situation is particularly concerning—12.7% of Hoosier youth struggle with severe major depression, exceeding the national average of 9.7%, as reported in the 2021 Indiana KIDS COUNT data book.

Youth experiencing mental health challenges are at a higher risk of facing a crisis, which can occur even before a diagnosis is made. A mental health crisis involves behaviors that put the child at risk of harming themselves or others, often leaving caregivers feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to respond.

NAMI in the Lobby was created to provide compassionate support and valuable resources during these difficult moments. As a peer-run program, our volunteers draw from their own lived experiences with mental health crises, offering empathetic listening and practical guidance. By equipping individuals with education and resources, NAMI in the Lobby aims to provide early and ongoing support to those in crisis and the families who support them.

The positive impact of NAMI in the Lobby at Riley Hospital has inspired us to expand the program, now offering services at both youth-serving and adult-serving locations. Our continued mission is to reach families and individuals earlier, providing hope and support when they need it most.

Where is NAMI in the Lobby?

NAMI in the Lobby is currently active at Centerstone on Marr Street in Columbus (directions).

Volunteers are at the table on Monday and Thursday evenings, but if you need resources during off hours, contact the Program Manager. Resources available include trigger locks, medication locks, affirmation stickers, helpline magnets, 988 information, and more.

---

Outside of Columbus, NAMI in the Lobby is also active at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health. If you are interested in expanding NAMI in the Lobby to your local affiliate, contact your local affiliate.

What does NAMI in the Lobby offer?

NAMI in the Lobby Indiana understands that mental health crises can be extremely stressful. For that reason, we strive to connect you with empathetic volunteers, helpful information, and local resources to assist you and your loved one(s) on your mental health journey.

Volunteers are NAMI members who receive training on NAMI programming, active listening, de-escalation, healthcare regulations (such as HIPPA), and more. Volunteers are familiar with local and statewide NAMI Indiana programming, including support groups and education classes, and have access to a large guide of more resources. If you have feedback you wish to share, please fill out our contact & feedback form.

Each visitor at the NAMI in the Lobby table also has the option to receive lethal means restriction devices, including gun locks and medication lock boxes, which help reduce access to items that could be used to harm oneself. These tools provide an added layer of safety and support during crises, helping to reduce the risk of suicide.

Access the resources online | Don't see a resource you need? Fill out the Contact & Feedback form

How can I volunteer?

We are so excited that you're interested in helping connect individuals with life-changing resources at our NAMI in the Lobby tables!

NAMI South Central seeks volunteers who are excited to connect patients and families with mental health resources. Qualified NAMI in the Lobby volunteers have lived experiences with their own mental health condition and/or supporting a loved one through their mental health journey.

Volunteers are required to complete an application, participate in a NAMI Indiana screening call, attend 8 hours of training, and pass a background check.

APPLY HERE

Report abuse