Family Support Group at Gartlan Center, Mental Health

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board's Family Support Group helps families maintain positive, helpful relationships when a member of the family is experiencing symptoms of mental illness. The group is not intended for individuals who themselves have symptoms of mental illness, but for their family members. The group provides opportunities for participants to talk about their feelings and challenges as they cope with their family members’ symptoms of mental illness, such as mood swings, drug use, or aggressive behavior. Group participants also discuss ways to take care of themselves so that they can maintain a calm, compassionate attitude with good boundaries. Information about resources is also provided. The program varies and may include guest speakers, movies.