I’m/my loved one will soon be released from prison. Does NAMI have any information on how to prepare for release?

If you or your loved one will be leaving prison soon, it is important to plan as far in advance as possible to ensure a successful transition. This will include everything from securing basic needs like housing, identification, employment, and financial/health insurance benefits, to ensuring you or your loved one can access mental health treatment once released.

You may wish to consult our website’s Reentry After a Period of Incarceration page, where you will find information on how to plan for release to help with a successful transition. There, you can access the NAMI Coming Home Reentry Guide, which outlines things to think about before and after release and strategies for getting started. Additional resources include:

The National Reentry Resource Center (NRRC) website contains a Second Chance Act (SCA) Grantee Program Map. You can use this map to find organizations and tribal governments providing comprehensive reentry services to individuals who have been incarcerated.
JobsForFelonsHub is a web-based resource providing resources dedicated to helping former felons get employed again. The website also offers a “one-stop-shop” for information and resources including expungement services, employment services, housing, and legal representation.
National Reentry Resource Center’s MythBusters provides information to ensure that individuals can access essential services and benefits immediately upon release to help stabilize the first days/weeks post-incarceration.

We are so glad you found this information. NAMI HelpLine offers a Family Caregiver Service. It brings together family caregivers with shared experiences and equips HelpLine Specialists with knowledge and insights into what helps. If you are a family caregiver and would like support from a peer, we encourage you to call the NAMI Family Caregiver HelpLine at 800-950-NAMI (6264) or send a text to 62640. We are available Monday through Friday, from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm EST.

Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST

Call: 800-950-NAMI (6264)

Text: 62640

Email: helpline@nami.org

Website: www.nami.org/help