The Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute

Whether someone has recently been diagnosed or has been living with a mental health challenge for most of their life, the experience can be very isolating. No one should suffer in silence. No one ought to feel alone.

We offer mental health education, training, and presentations to the greater Chicagoland community to increase understanding and decrease stigma connected to mental health and suicide. Many programs offer professional CEUs.

“Mental Health in the Workplace”.

Our 22nd annual community mental health conference focused on acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges in our personal and professional environments.

There are many ways to describe Naomi – a loving daughter, caring sister, relative, and a cherished friend to many. She was a gifted artist and designer, as well as a skilled geriatrics counselor; who engaged with her community. Naomi was a compassionate and spiritual person, who cared deeply about disadvantaged people and the humane treatment of animals.

Marilyn and Larry Cohen are dedicated to reducing the stigma that has been a barrier to individuals and families being able to access the mental health treatment, support and understanding that they need and deserve. They established the Naomi Ruth Cohen Charitable Foundation in 2000 in honor of their daughter, Naomi, who lived with Bipolar Disorder and died by suicide. In 2008 they joined with The Chicago School to establish the Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education to reduce stigma connected to mental health and suicide through education, research, and community.

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.