When someone you love lives with mental illness, whether it's your child, your teen, your partner, or your parent, you can become their first responder, advocate, and safety net without any training or time off. The Caregiver Resilience and Boundary Index shows where your energy is going, gives you words for the hardest boundaries, and connects you with St. Louis organizations that can share the load.
In a crisis right now? Call or text 988, or text HOME to 741741.
Think about the last month. There are no right answers, and nothing you choose leaves your device unless you email yourself the report.
Pick the situation that wears on you most. Use the script as written or make it your own.
When caregivers try to be a loved one's only social circle, coach, and counselor, both people burn out. The right support outside your home restores that balance. For adults, Independence Center offers a community of their own, meaningful work, and purpose among peers.
The front door for adults 18+ living with a serious mental illness. Staff explain eligibility and walk your loved one through enrollment. Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and the uninsured.
Call 314-533-4163, or walk in Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to noon, at 4245 Forest Park Ave.
How to get startedJoin Independence Center for lunch and a tour to see the Clubhouse for yourself, with or without your loved one.
Call 314-533-4245, email [email protected], or request a tour online.
Request a tourFamily-to-Family is a free class for families, partners, and friends of adults with mental health conditions. NAMI St. Louis also hosts a virtual Family and Friends Seminar on the last Wednesday of each month, 6 to 8 PM.
Register through NAMI St. Louis.
Visit NAMI St. LouisA free class for parents and family caregivers of children and young people living with mental health conditions, taught by parents who've been there. NAMI Basics OnDemand covers ages 22 and younger and works at your own pace.
Take it online any time, or ask NAMI St. Louis about live classes.
About NAMI BasicsFree, confidential support from specialists who understand caregiving, with practical next steps.
Call 1-800-950-6264 and press 4, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 10 PM Eastern.
About the HelpLineUnited Way's free line for local help with housing, food, utilities, transportation, and other services.
Call or text 211, any time.
Search 211 online
IQorb founder Sarah Schlafly built this free tool for St. Louis families in the run-up to Dancing with the St. Louis Stars on January 23, 2027, where she and Dr. Jerry Heise are dancing to raise money for Independence Center.
Independence Center lifts weight off families by giving adults with serious mental illness a community, a job path, housing support, and care of their own.
This is a reflection tool, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you're worried about your own health or safety, talk with your doctor or a mental health professional, or call or text 988 any time.