June is a month of reflection and awareness, especially when it comes to mental health. As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and mental health conditions, ABLE United is proud to spotlight one of our valued partners: NAMI Florida. We recently connected with Carali McLean, executive director of NAMI Florida, to talk about the organization’s impact, the importance of trauma-informed support, and how financial tools, like ABLE accounts, can empower recovery and independence.
Can you start by telling us about NAMI Florida’s mission and how the organization supports individuals and families affected by mental illness?
Our mission is to enhance the lives of those affected by mental illness through education, support, and advocacy. As a statewide organization, we:
- Lead state-level advocacy and fundraising to expand programming in underserved communities and support our 20 local affiliates.
- Ensure access to peer-led education, support groups, and resources.
- Partner with affiliates to grow Florida’s peer specialist workforce via training, mentoring, and professional development.
We believe recovery is possible, and no one should face mental illness alone.
June marked PTSD Awareness Month, a reminder of the ongoing need for education and resources around trauma-related conditions. How does NAMI Florida support individuals navigating PTSD and similar challenges?
PTSD Awareness Month is a powerful reminder of how widespread the impact of trauma truly is.
The latest stats show:
- About 70% of adults in the U.S.—more than 220 million people— have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives.
- While not everyone who experiences trauma develops post-traumatic stress disorder, roughly 6% of the population will experience PTSD at some point.
- Women are more than twice as likely as men to be affected.
Trauma comes in many forms—from combat and domestic violence to accidents, loss, and natural disasters, including hurricanes, which we regularly face here in Florida. Just last year, several of our affiliates provided outreach and support to people in their communities affected by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton.
Here are some important things to note:
- Trauma affects the brain, body, and sense of safety in ways that can be long-lasting. That’s why our education and support programs create safe spaces for people living with trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
- Whether it’s a peer-led support group, a family education course, or an outreach training for law enforcement, our goal is to build understanding, reduce stigma, and help people find a path toward healing.
- No one should have to face the aftereffects of trauma alone—and through connection, we help people feel seen, supported, and empowered.
We often hear that mental health and financial wellness go hand in hand. In your experience, how does financial insecurity impact those living with mental illness—and how can tools like ABLE accounts make a difference?
Most can relate to how money worries increase stress. For those with chronic health conditions, financial insecurity adds difficulty by affecting access to care, housing stability, and employment. This socioeconomic stress worsens their health challenges and creates a feeling of helplessness.
People on Medicaid or disability payments often fear earning or saving more due to potential loss of benefits. ABLE accounts can be transformative, allowing individuals and families to save for essential needs without losing support. They provide financial flexibility and peace of mind.
What role does financial empowerment play in the recovery journey for individuals with mental health conditions?
Financial empowerment is a vital part of recovery. When individuals have control over their finances, they gain stability, independence, confidence, and hope for the future. Families, too, can feel a deeper sense of security knowing their loved ones have the tools to manage their needs and plan ahead. Whether it’s saving for a goal, accessing education, or simply having the means to make decisions about their own care, financial empowerment reinforces something essential: that recovery isn’t just about surviving—it’s about living with dignity, purpose, and choice.
Looking to the future, what are some of NAMI Florida’s priorities for expanding access, awareness, and support—and how can partners like ABLE United help advance that vision?
Looking ahead, NAMI Florida aims to expand peer support, family education, culturally responsive programming, and advocacy centered on lived experiences.
Partners like ABLE United are vital, empowering individuals financially and advancing shared goals of equity and recovery.
Together, we’re fostering a Florida where mental health is prioritized, and everyone can thrive.
Learn how ABLE United and NAMI Florida are helping individuals take control of their financial and mental well-being at ABLEUnited.com and namiflorida.org.
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