Printer
TextFamily Support Group at Gartlan Center
for families with members experiencing symptoms of mental illness
What: Opportunity for discussion,
information and support for families. Professionally
facilitated.
When: Meets on the second and fourth
Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Gartlan Center, 8119 Holland Road,
Alexandria, Virginia 22306 (
Directions)
Cost: Free
The 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. Program varies, and may include guest speakers, movies.
Pre-registration is appreciated for planning purposes, but is not required. For more information or to pre-register, please contact the group facilitator, Maureen H. McCracken, Behavioral Nurse Specialist with the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board at 703-799-2705, TTY 711.
The Family Support Group is a program of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, which provides vital services for people of all ages with mental illness, substance use disorders, intellectual disabilities, and for young children with developmental delays.
Note: In the event of inclement weather, if Fairfax County Public Schools are closed, the group will not be held.
Tips For Families
Listen to what your family member is saying.
Don’t be judgmental.
Don’t rush to fix the problem.
Acknowledge strengths and triumphs.
Printable
Family Support Group Information Card 
Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. For information, call 703-799-2705, TTY 711. Please allow two weeks’ notice to arrange ADA accommodations. To request this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-7000, TTY 711..
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