Every form of mental illness presents its own challenges. Unfortunately, in the United States they all share one hurdle: a hellish mental healthcare system, inadequately funded and a labyrinth to navigate. Kepler’s Literary Foundation is partnering with the Mental Health Association of San Mateo County, and San Mateo County’s chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, to present the new guidebook, You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health―With Advice from Experts and Wisdom from Real People and Families. Penned by NAMI Medical Director Dr. Ken Duckworth, this wide-ranging, compassionate book plants its feet firmly on realistic ground: where is help available? How can it be accessed and paid for? Is medication something you have to be on for life? What’s the best way for caregivers to be supportive, while still taking care of themselves? What cultural considerations play into getting the best mental healthcare?

Beyond the scope of other mental health guides, You Are Not Alone tells stories from the front lines: 130 tales from caregivers and clients, steeped in hard-won wisdom. Combining those personal experiences and straightforward how-tos, NAMI and Dr. Duckworth have created a roadmap to getting help and support sooner, and making recovery more accessible. And all royalties for You Are Not Alone go back to NAMI, forwarding its mission to improve the lives of all Americans affected by mental illness.

All attendees ages 5+ must present a vaccination card, a photo of your card, or a digital vaccine record (e.g., myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov) with matching photo ID. We also require a first booster for eligible attendees ages 12+. Masks are required for everyone over the age of 2 years old and must be worn at all times in the venue, and throughout the duration of the event, including the signing.

Photo of Dr. Ken Duckworth by Amon Alexander