NAMI Haywood

07/06/2026

07/06/2026

A little late but important to bring awareness to this very serious eating disorder.

Today marks ARFID Awareness Day.

ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) is more than “fussy eating”. It’s a serious eating disorder that can have a significant impact. Raising awareness helps reduce stigma and ensure those affected feel seen and supported.

At First Steps ED, we’re committed to improving awareness, education, and support around ARFID all year round.

Keep an eye out for some exciting things coming from First Steps ED this month as we continue to expand our work and resources in ARFID!

03/20/2026

Our #1 volunteer Mr Darcy was featured on WLOS last night showcasing all the great work he is doing in the Haywood County Jails. If you are interested in volunteering with NAMI please call Melissa Orr, Mr Darcy’s handler 😊 at 828.307.3344.

A local therapist gave inmates at the Henderson County jail a chance to connect with a therapy dog.

07/10/2025

FREE LOCAL RESOURCE

05/01/2025

Volunteer with the NAMI HelpLine and help empower people through their toughest moments.

Your compassion will provide comfort and guidance to those in need.

Apply today at nami.org/volunteer

04/18/2025

Introducing our new support group for q***r teens and teens who may be questioning. Anyone age 14-17 is welcome! This group begins Thursday April 17 at 6:30pm. Please reach out with any questions!

04/18/2025

What’s happening in our neighborhoods!

The Haywood County Senior Resource Center announces Michelle Claytor as its new manager, succeeding John Chicoine, who has been at the helm of the SRC for 12 years.

04/18/2025

As temperatures are rising be aware of HOT CARS! Temperatures inside a car can rapidly rise even on days that you may think are not too hot. These temperatures can reach life-threatening levels within MINUTES. A child’s body heats up THREE to FIVE times faster than an adult, making them especially vulnerable to heat stroke which can cause damaging health issues such as organ failure, brain damage or death. Hundreds of children have died after being left or trapped in a hot car.

Many of these cases involve loving, attentive caregivers who made a simple but fatal mistake. Other times, children climb into unlocked vehicles without adults realizing.

Raising awareness and taking preventive measures such as ALWAYS checking the back seat before locking the car or setting an alarm in your car and overall, NEVER leaving your child alone in the car are some important steps to take to avoid at all costs any kind of incidents. If you see a child alone in a car call 911 immediately.

03/27/2025

Been a long week? Feeling stressed or anxious? Give yourself permission to take time for yourself. After all, you are worth making a priority.