|
In this eNews
NAMIQN
Miss ChocolateFundraiser
NAMIQN Advocacy Meeting
NAMIQN FEST
The challenge begins 9/10
NAMIQN Educational Meeting:
Tardive Dyskinesia:
Understanding Medication Side Effects with
Dr. Jose Rubio
NAMIQN Educational Meeting
Clozapine: Past, Present & Future
An Evening with Dr. Gil Honigfeld
Spotlight on Support
Virtual Family Support Group
NAMIQN
Suicide Prevention Month
NAMIQN Peer to Peer
NAMIQN Connections
Support Groups:
TEN different support groups
Unites Socialization Groups
| |
|
🍫Get Your Sweet Tooth Ready🍫
Our Ms. Chocolate Fundraiser is LIVE!
| |
This is your chance to treat yourself AND make a difference! Every bite of chocolate, every sweet snack, and every gift you buy helps NAMI Queens/Nassau bring hope, education, and support to families and individuals living with mental health conditions.
- Shop gourmet chocolates, cookies, and fun treats!
- Share the link with friends & family — the more the merrier!
- Your support fuels our programs and community outreach.
| |
Let’s turn chocolate into CHANGE!
🍫 Together, we can make an impact
one sweet bite at a time.
| | |
Protecting Access to Vital Medical Services
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
7:00 PM
Sloman Auditorium, Zucker Hillside Hospital
Purpose of the Meeting
The continued availability of essential medical services for our loved ones is a matter of critical importance. This meeting will bring together community members, advocates, and stakeholders to:
- Discuss current challenges impacting service access.
- Coordinate advocacy strategies to protect existing services.
- Plan future activities to ensure ongoing support and availability of care.
Your participation is vital in shaping our collective response and ensuring that every voice is heard.
Logistics & Parking
Please note that construction is ongoing at Zucker Hillside Hospital. Ample parking remains available in the lot adjacent to the security booth with the gate. Signage will be posted to direct attendees.
What to Bring
To facilitate outreach and communication, please bring an index card that includes:
- Your full name
- Your phone number
- The names of your Member of the House of Representatives, State Assembly Member, and State Senator
Refreshments
Light refreshments will be served, including coffee, water, and snacks.
| |
Contact Information
For questions or further information, please contact:
David Sills – @namiqn.org
Your engagement is essential. Together, we can ensure that these services remain protected for those who depend on them now and in the future.
| | |
Tardive Dyskinesia: Understanding Medication Side Effects with
Dr. Jose Rubio
| | |
Educational Presentation: Medications and Their Side Effects
Featuring Jose M. Rubio, MD Board-Certified Psychiatrist & Research Investigator
Thursday, October 16, 2025
6:30PM- Virtually
About the Speaker:
Jose M. Rubio, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist and researcher specializing in severe mental illness. A graduate of the Universitat de Valencia, he completed residency at Zucker Hillside Hospital, where he was Chief Resident for Research. Since joining the faculty in 2017, Dr. Rubio has led studies on treatment resistance in schizophrenia, provides outpatient care for patients with psychotic disorders, directs the residency research track, and has received multiple national research awards.
Presentation & Discussion Topics
-
Tardive Dyskinesia (TD): An involuntary movement disorder characterized by uncontrollable movements of the face, torso, and extremities.
- Scope of the Condition: TD affects an estimated 800,000 adults in the U.S., with approximately 60% undiagnosed.
- Medication Side Effects: Understanding how different medications contribute to conditions like TD.
- Reducing Stigma: How education and awareness can shift perspectives and improve care.
- Early Intervention: The importance of routine screening for earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
Why This Matters
- Many medications—not only antipsychotics—can cause side effects.
- Awareness reduces stigma and ensures families understand both risks and benefits.
- Early recognition of TD can significantly improve quality of life.
Audience Q&A
Following his presentation, Dr. Rubio will engage in an interactive Q&A session. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions and gain insights from his clinical and research expertise.
| | |
Clozapine: Past, Present & Future
An Evening with Dr. Gil Honigfeld
| | |
Special Presentation & Q&A with Dr. Gil Honigfeld
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
6:00 PM
Sloman Auditorium, Zucker Hillside Hospital
75-59 263rd St., Glen Oaks, NY
Refreshments will be served
Dr. Gil Honigfeld: A Pioneer in Clozapine’s History
As product champion from 1973–2004, Dr. Honigfeld led the pivotal clinical trials that brought clozapine to the U.S. market on September 26, 1989 for treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
He also oversaw the launch of clozapine’s second FDA indication in 2002—still the only medication approved to reduce suicide in individuals with serious mental illness.
Nicknamed “The Godfather of Clozapine” by The Angry Moms, Dr. Honigfeld has been a relentless advocate ensuring this gold standard treatment remains available for the sickest psychiatric patients.
Key Presentation & Discussion Topics:
🔹 Who is Dr. Gil Honigfeld? From his New Jersey roots to groundbreaking work at Zucker Hillside Hospital.
🔹 Why Clozapine? What makes it unique among psychiatric treatments.
🔹 The Suicide Connection- Why it’s the only FDA-approved medicine for reducing suicidal behavior.
🔹 National Perspective- Who is most at risk, and how suicide rates vary across the U.S.
🔹 The Future of Treatment- With REMS retired, how do we expand access?
🔹 What’s Next? Could any new medication replace clozapine after 35 years?
Why This Matters:
Families and advocates have seen loved ones reclaim their lives thanks to clozapine.
With REMS restrictions lifted, Dr. Honigfeld’s mission is to expand access so more patients can benefit from this life-saving medicine.
Interactive Q&A
Bring your questions! Don’t miss this chance to engage directly with one of the most influential voices in psychiatric medicine.
| | |
Spotlight on Support:
Virtual Family Support Group
| |
Virtual Family Support Group with David and Gail
Tuesdays
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
NAMI Family Support Group is a peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition.
Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.
By sharing your experiences in a safe setting, you can gain hope and develop supportive relationships. This group allows your voice to be heard and provides an opportunity for your personal needs to be met.
It encourages empathy, productive discussion and a sense of community. You’ll benefit from other’s experiences, discover your inner strength and empower yourself by sharing your own experiences in a non-judgmental space.
| | |
NAMI Peer-to-Peer is a free, 8-week educational program designed for adults living with a mental health condition who are ready to take the next step in their recovery journey.
When: Wednesdays, starting September 10
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Where: Virtually
This course is led by two trained mentors who have lived experience with mental health challenges and understand the path to living well. Through a combination of presentations, group discussions, and interactive activities, you’ll gain practical tools, valuable insights, and a supportive community.
Participants will receive helpful handouts, a certificate of completion, and most importantly knowledge and skills that can empower your rehabilitation and recovery journey.
| | |
NAMI Connections:
Sharing the Journey Together
When: Sunday, September 14, 2025
TIme: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Where: Virtually
NAMI Connections is a free, peer-led support group for adults living with a mental health condition. This welcoming, confidential, and judgment-free space is designed for honest sharing, mutual support, and meaningful connection. Here, you’ll find understanding from people who have truly “been there” and know what it’s like.
This session will be facilitated by Jessica Garfinkel and Kimberly Uckele compassionate, trained peer leaders who draw on their own lived experiences to guide thoughtful, supportive conversations.
| | Join us and connect with others who understand, in a place where your voice matters and your story is valued. | | |
Unites Socializations Groups
Connecting, Socializing, Thriving
Unites Monday Nights, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Sloman Auditorium and Virtual
NAMI Queens/Nassau is thrilled to feature Unites by NAMI, a groundbreaking socialization group offering adults living with mental health challenges a supportive space to connect, bond, and have fun.
Weekly Activities Include:
Game Night – Challenge yourself with new games or enjoy familiar favorites. A perfect way to meet others with similar interests!
Karaoke Night – Share your favorite songs solo or as a group! Discover new music, enjoy performances, and have a great time.
Art & Creative Writing – Express yourself through art or storytelling, with opportunities to share and connect.
Gentle Yoga – Relax, recharge, and focus on wellness in a supportive environment.
Knitting & More – Craft, create, and bond with peers over shared interests.
Know someone who’s struggling? Invite them to join Unites by NAMI! Together, we can build a supportive and welcoming community.
Click here to register!
| |
Unites Friday Afternoons, 11:00AM – 2:00 PM
@PROs in Hollis Queens
You do not need to be enrolled in PROS to participate.
Schedule will be: 11AM activity, 12PM Free Pizza for lunch, 1PM activity
You can bring your lunch with you as well.
To join us register below.
Please contact Janice Garfinkel, jgarfinkel@namiqn.org
Getting there:
To plan a subway or bus ride visit: new.mta.info
The 43, 1,36,77, and 76 bus lines stop in front of the building.
With an account transportation can be arranged through Able-Ride within Nassau County or Access-A-Ride within Queens.
Parking:
Parking is available in the shopping center parking lot or in the back of the building on the street. The 202-70 Foothill Ave address is the back of the shopping center building BUT th front entrance to access PROs.
| | |
NAMI Support is here for you both virtually and in person when noted!
Black and Brown Wellness Caregivers Support Group - Virtual:
Tuesdays 6:00-7:30 Group Leaders: Jennifer- taylorwins24@gmail.com & Carmine Roche-carmine.roche@gmail.com
Sharing and Caring Support Group - Virtual:
Every Sunday from 7:30-8:30 PM
Register once and use the same Zoom link each week. If you are new, a Zoom link will be emailed to you before the group. Group Leaders: Lee Israel, lisrael@namiqn.org, Gail Keren, gailkeren57@gmail.com
Family Support Group - Virtual:
Tuesdays 6:30-8:00 Group Leaders: David and Gail Sills dsills@namiqn.org
Peer Support Group:
Tuesdays 2:00-3:00 PM Group Leaders: Jessica Garfinkel and Kimberly Uckele, jgarfinkel628@gmail.com
Peer Support Group - Virtual:
Thursdays 6:30-7:30 PM Group Leaders: Jessica Garfinkel and Lara Rosenthal, jgarfinkel628@gmail.com
Co-Occurring Support Group: Caregivers - In person:
Thursdays 7:00-8:30 PM - 2/13, 3/13, 4/10, 5/8, 6/12, 7/9, 8/13, 9/11, 10/9, 11/13, 12/11
Group Leader: David Hymowitz, office@namiqn.org
Family to Family Reunion- In Person:
Second Wednesday of each month beginning 7:00-9:00 PM
Group Leaders: Lee Israel, lisrael@namiqn.org, and Gail Sills
Peer to Peer- Virtual:
Sundays Group Leaders: Jessica Garfinkel and Katie O’Keeffe, jgarfinkel628@gmail.com
Caregiver Support Group: Mental Health Disorder - In person
Thursdays 7:00-8:30 PM – 2/27, 3/27, 4/24, 5/22, 6/26, 7/23, 8/20, 9/25, 10/23, 11/20,12/18
Group Leader: David Hymowitz, office@namiqn.org
| | |
September is Suicide Prevention Month
Start a conversation! Be the difference!
| | |
Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone—but silence shouldn’t respond to pain. One caring question and a willing ear can save a life. You don’t have to face this alone—help is available, and healing is possible.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call, text, or chat 988 for 24/7, judgment-free support.
| |
Building Student Resilience Through Shared Resources | | |
As we gear up for the new school year, we understand the importance of mental health for students, parents, and educators. That’s why we are adding to our comprehensive youth mental health resource library this back to school season.
Navigating the challenges of academics, social dynamics, and personal growth can be overwhelming but, together, we can build a resilient and thriving community.
Our resources aim to support educators, guide parents, and empower students on their mental health journey during the school year and beyond.
| | | | |
