BANGOR – The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Bangor will sponsor the NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program designed specifically for family and friends of those with serious mental illnesses. The 12-week series of classes is free and will begin 6:30-9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 10, in the Osprey Room at Acadia Hospital, 268 Stillwater Ave.

The course will cover information about schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder; coping skills such as handling crisis and relapse; listening and communication techniques; problem-solving skills; recovery and rehabilitation; and self-care around worry and stress.

The course balances basic psycho-education and skill training with emotional support, self-care and empowerment.

The curriculum was written by an experienced family member and mental health professional. Co-teachers will be family member volunteers Martha Whitehouse and Peggy Grant.

Those who wish to attend must preregister by calling Martha at 862-5953.