What It Is:
- A presentation by people living with mental illness that creates awareness about what is involved in recovery from mental illness. A powerful anti-stigma tool to change hearts, minds, and attitudes about mental illness.
- An opportunity for people diagnosed with a mental illness to gain self-confidence, self-esteem, and income while serving as role models for the community.
- Living proof that recovery from mental illness is an ongoing reality.
The Presentation:
- Hear from people who have struggled with disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other severe mental illnesses.
- A brief video features consumers speaking about the topics of Dark Days, Acceptance, Treatment, Coping Skills, and Successes, Hopes, and Dreams.
- Gain insight into how people with serious mental illnesses cope with the realities of their disorders while reclaiming productive lives.
- Ask questions from the real experts — the consumers are the ones who “have been there.”
The Audience:
- People living in recovery with a mental illness in day programs, inpatient settings, support groups, and other community settings who can share, learn, and find hope for successful living.
- Family and friends who may need further reassurance of the possibility of recovery for their loved ones.
- Health care providers who desire strengthened communication with their clients and improved outcomes.
- Law enforcement officials to increase awareness of and sensitivity to behaviors triggered by mental illness.
- Faith communities to increase responsiveness to people with mental illnesses who may first turn to their spiritual community for guidance.
- Students of various age levels, who wish to expand their knowledge of living with mental illness.
- Any community or civic organization who may be interested in learning more about mental illnesses and recovery.
Why Must We Have This Program?
- Raises awareness in communities about recovery from mental illness. Empowers people living with mental illness by providing a path to recovery.
- Presents the real face of mental illness. Combats stigma by opening dialogue.
- Provides supported employment opportunities for people living with mental illness. Increases visibility of NAMI as a resource.