Recovery from a mental illness is an emotionally charged term that, unfortunately, can be difficult to define, due to the current social stigma about mental disorders. Fortunately, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has been aggressively promoting the need to advance the nation’s behavioral health and reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.
Through the Recovery Support Strategic Initiative, SAMHSA announced a new working definition of what “recovery” means to those suffering from mental illnesses or substance abuse: “A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.”
The importance of this definition is twofold:
- it recognizes there are many different pathways to recovery and each individual determines his or her own way
- it reinforces prior legal mandates within the Americans with Disabilities Act that all Americans deserve a high-quality and satisfying life in the community
In addition, SAMHSA met with several leaders and providers in the mental health community to promote the 4 key tenants behind the new definition:
- Health: overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) as well as living in a physically and emotionally healthy way;
- Home: a stable and safe place to live;
- Purpose: meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school, volunteerism, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and the independence, income and resources to participate in society; and
- Community: relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.
The overall message to Americans, especially those within the mental health community, is that “recovery” is holistic, requiring support in growth in body, mind, spirit, and community.
Pasadena Villa’s Smoky Mountain Lodge is an adult intensive psychiatric residential treatment center for clients with serious mental illnesses. We also provide other individualized therapy programs, step-down residential programs, and less intensive mental health services, such as Community Residential Homes, Supportive Housing, Day Treatment Programs and Life Skills training. Pasadena Villa’s Outpatient Center in Raleigh, North Carolina offers partial hospitalization (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (PHP). If you or someone you know may need mental health services, please complete our contact form or call us at 407-215-2519 for more information.
Sources:
SAMHSA.Gov
