Championing Mental Health for Northwest Indiana

Our Mission

Transforming our communities through proven programs that educate, empower, and strengthen the way individuals and families function for life.

​At Mental Health America of Northwest Indiana (MHANWI), we are dedicated to transforming the mental health landscape of Lake, Porter, Newton, and Jasper Counties. Our mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based programs that educate, empower, and strengthen individuals and families, fostering resilient communities across Northwest Indiana.

We believe strengthening Protective Factors enhances the well-being of children and families. Developed by the Center for the Study of Social Policy, this research-driven, two-generation framework supports parents, children, and their relationships—helping families cope, grow, and thrive, even in challenging times.

Breaking Barriers, Building Resilience

We believe that positive mental health is attainable by removing barriers that limit an individual's potential. Factors such as biological, psychological, and environmental challenges can impede function, endanger children, hinder development, and cause trauma, all of which negatively impact lifelong well-being. Our approach emphasizes early intervention and prevention, focusing on building Protective Factors within families to mitigate risks associated with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).​

Shot of a happy young family playing together on the floor at home.
Family, children and portrait with a girl, boy and parents lying in the ground or floor of their ho.
Happy indian family having fun outdoor - Hindu parents laughing with their children at city park - Love concept - Main focus on mother and daughter face

More Than 60 Years of Mental Health Advocacy

Since our inception in 1957, MHANWI has been at the forefront of mental health advocacy and support in Northwest Indiana. Our journey is marked by significant milestones:​

1957

Establishment of MHANWI, focusing on mental health education and advocacy in Lake County.

Expansion of services to include early intervention programs for children and families.

1960s

1980s

Introduction of home visiting programs, emphasizing support for at-risk families.

Collaboration with local schools to implement anti-bullying and mental health awareness initiatives.

1990s

2000s

Growth of partnerships with community organizations in Porter, Newton, and Jasper Counties, extending our reach and impact.

Launch of specialized programs addressing infant and maternal health, as well as support groups for adults with mental health challenges.

2010s

2020s

Continued commitment to innovative, evidence-based practices, adapting to the evolving needs of our community.

The 5 Protective Factors: Building Stronger Families

Preventing Mental Health Challenges Before They Begin

At MHANWI, we focus on building Protective Factors within families to reduce the risks of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)—proven stressors that negatively impact mental health and development.

Parental Resilience

Helping parents manage stress and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

Happy, family and face above on the floor in happiness for bonding time or relaxing together at hom.

The Mental Health Landscape

%
Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life.
in 5
Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year.

At MHANWI, we’re working to change these statistics by providing free, early intervention programs that support mental wellness at every stage of life.

Support Our Mission

Mental Health & Early Childhood Development: The Connection

Welcoming a baby is life-changing, and all parents need support—especially those facing teen parenting, single parenting, or financial hardships. Without guidance, overwhelming stress can impact a parent’s ability to nurture their child.

Parents who experienced toxic stress in childhood—growing up without stable support—may struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, affecting their ability to respond to their child’s needs. Early intervention helps break this cycle, ensuring both parents and children thrive.

Female social worker talking to middle aged woman at home near front door. Social services, survey, help concept
Support Our Mission

Through Home Visiting, Parents Gain Lifelong Skills

Home visiting programs create lasting change by supporting parents through life’s challenges, reducing stress, and fostering healthier environments for future generations.

Navigate personal and parenting challenges with confidence

Overcome obstacles and build resilience

Heal from past trauma to create a healthier future

Thrive in a way that fits their family’s unique needs

A Path to Healing: Empowering Parents Through Support

“I’ve been seeing a mom for more than a year who has struggled with depression due to an abusive relationship. Together, we created a safety plan to help her deal with her feelings, and she continues to work through difficult times. She keeps this safety plan on her fridge so when she recognizes that she is having difficulty coping, she can read through it and try one of the activities that help her or call a friend for support. When we met, she had nowhere to turn for help. During our visits, we were able to talk about healthy relationships and about resources and safe places she could go to get out of her situation. After a few months, she decided to follow through with the plan we created, utilizing resources I was able to provide. Today, mom is thriving in a new environment and focusing on her personal growth and the development of her child.”

 

– MHANWI Family Support Specialist