A 12-week course for families and friends of people with mental illness will again be offered this year on the Vineyard. Sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the course is free and begins on March 5. Weekly sessions run from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in Vineyard Haven. (Students must be enrolled to learn the location.)

This marks the 10th year for the course, which offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to educate and support people with loved ones who have mental illness. The course is taught by two family member volunteers in a confidential setting. It aims to help participants become better equipped to navigate the challenges of caring for someone with mental illness, including working with professionals.

For more information or to enroll, call Katharine Neadow or Megan Grennan at 508-939-0681.