Empowerment for Mental Health Consumers
Moving toward the next millenium
Mental illness is an invisible disability that can bring dreams and life
goals to an abrupt halt. It can cut down a person in the prime of life.
Empowerment begins with the realization that there is indeed the
possibility of wellness and wholeness.
It is important that individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder,
major depression, and the other types of psychiatric disabilities
understand that they are not their disease. Often, when faced
with a psychiatric diagnosis, we believe that we are nothing more than
a bundle of symptoms. Empowerment is the activity of taking charge of one's
life. It is the act of believing that one is a whole, worthy, deserving
person who can effect positive change in the way he or she interacts with
the world. When mentally ill individuals are empowered, they feel that they
can be partners in their own recovery. No longer are doctors, nurses, and
therapists telling them what to do or how to behave. They, the consumers,
become active participants in the growth process involved in wellness.
It is my fervent belief that recovery is indeed possible for individuals
with mental illness. First one needs to be aware that there is light beyond
the darkness and tragedy that these ailments can bring. It is not an
emotional "death sentence" as many people believe.
When I was first placed in a psychiatric institution at age fourteen,
I never thought that I would escape those walls. I felt helpless, hopeless,
and isolated, unable to talk with anyone about the shame I felt in being
diagnosed as an emotionally disturbed adolescent. It wasn't until I
realized that I had strengths and talents that needed to be acknowledged
and utilized that I could break free of those self-imposed mental shackles.
I had to have hope that there was life after the psychiatric ward.
Empowerment is about being able to advocate for yourself, and others, in a
way that is life affirming and strong. Not only are you not your illness,
but also you are a capable human being who needs and deserves love and
happiness in your life. Empowerment is about standing up for your rights
and clearly stating what it is you need in order to feel whole again.
Having choices and following through with those choices is empowering.
Finding a job that suits your unique skills and working to your highest
potential is an empowering move. Going back to school, or living in
supported independent living is also a form of empowerment. Keep your
focus on the light, not the enveloping darkness.
Here, at Sanctuary Psychiatric Centers of Santa Barbara, we help instill
the ideas of empowerment and self-advocacy in each of our consumers.
Through a carefully planned set of programs, groups, and individual supports,
each mentally ill individual is treated with the utmost respect and dignity
that each deserves.
Explore our Web Site for more information on the mental health issues
facing us today as we move closer to the year 2000. Take your time and
learn about the services offered by our agency. Read our informative
articles (many written by the staff of Sanctuary Psychiatric Centers).
Most of all, let us hear from you. E-mail us with your questions or
comments. Stay empowered and active and aware. With empowerment comes
strength to effect positive change in your life and in the lives of others
touched by mental illness.
We are no longer the silent, invisible disability group. We must unite to
make positive systems change a reality.
With best wishes for your mental health.
Selina I. Glater, M. A., R.M.T.
Program Director for Consumer and Outreach Services
