Key Program Topics
In Our Own Voice: Living with
Mental Illness is a unique recovery education presentation that offers
hope and provides insight into the recovery now possible for people with
mental illness. IOOV is often a transformative experience for
presenters, who are empowered by giving voice to their struggles
and successes. Presenters cover issues they frequently face while
living with mental illness.
Dark Days – Recovery from a
serious mental illness can be a long, difficult journey. During the
Dark Days portion of the presentation the speakers explore feelings
and experiences that occurred during the darkest moments of living with a
mental illness.
Acceptance – Learning to
accept the reality of having a serious mental illness is quite a
challenge. It can be hard for anyone to come to terms with having a
serious illness, no matter what it is. Acceptance is essential to
beginning recovery. While sharing the period of acceptance, each
presenter explains how acceptance is achieved.
Treatment – There are many
methods for treating mental illness. Every person is different, and
this is the reason that there are many ways to walk down the path to
recovery. Presenters explain what treatment plan worked for them
during this segment.
Coping Strategies –
Wellness can be achieved by following a treatment plan and
incorporating coping skills as an integral part of that plan. Some
common coping skills include: making time for leisure activities and
rest, excercising, engaging in spiritual activities, developing
healthy friendships, getting involved with community charities, and
finding ways to keep a sense of self awareness and acceptance.
During this section, presenters share their own coping skills with the
audience.
Successes, Hopes and Dreams -
IOOV Presenters have a variety of skills and ambitions. A key
component of recovery is setting goals while pursuing personal dreams.
Many consumers incorporate what they’ve learned from their illness into
activities and plans for their future. During this section
presenters share their own successes, hopes, and dreams.
