We consumers of mental health services and survivors of the mental health system are experts in our own illnesses, and the services that help in our recovery. When this treatment falls short, we are often the first to know it. We reap the benefits of services that work, and we suffer the consequence of those that don’t. Our observations and wishes must be considered. We must transform our mental health system into one in which consumers and survivors are actively involved in our own treatment.
The nationwide consumer/survivor movement is leading the mental health system toward a new age of services based on self-determination and self-help. Next Steps supports the many nonprofit and government agencies that have embraced these changes. But some organizations have not yet adopted these new methods. We will keep working until the day when observations and input of consumers and survivors are honored everywhere.
A number of actions would make a difference:
- Ensure the voices of people with mental illnesses are heard at all levels of care, from treatment planning to formation of policies at agencies providing these services.
- Fully fund consumer/survivor-run statewide advocacy organizations, and technical assistance centers to assist them.
- In communities across Illinois, create crisis respite centers, telephone support “warm lines,” in-home services, and recovery centers that encourage social interaction.
- Expand employment and education of mental health consumers/survivors.
- Reframe medical care to encompass people’s psychological-social needs. Combine the best aspects of the public healthcare and mental health care systems.
- Employ more mental health peers, who use experiences of their recovery to help other mental health consumers and survivors.
- Correct inadequate funding of mental health services.
