In Our Own Voice: Living With Mental Illness 

Website Information/Summary

 In Our Own Voice: Living With Mental Illness, a NAMI Signature Program, is a unique educational presentation that offers insight into the hope and recovery now possible for people with severe mental illness.  Nationally trained consumers lead a brief yet comprehensive and interactive presentation about mental illness.  The presentation includes a video, personal testimony, and discussion between the presenter and the audience.  The testimonies put a face on mental illness while informing the audience of how people with mental illness recover and reclaim productive lives.   

In Our Own Voice is a practical tool to educate and increase awareness about the true nature of brain disorders, commonly known as mental illnesses.  The presentation covers issues frequently faced by those dealing with severe mental illnesses:  Dark Days, Acceptance, Treatment, Coping Strategies, and Successes, Hopes, and Dreams.

 The program is ideal for

• Consumers - to share, learn, and find hope for living successfully with your illness

• Family members - discover the possibility of recovery for your own loved one

• Health providers - strengthen communication with your clients and improve outcomes

• Law enforcement officials - for increased awareness of and sensitivity to behaviors triggered by mental illness

• Faith communities - increased responsiveness to people with mental illness who may first turn to the spiritual community for guidance

• Any civic or community organization interested in learning more about mental illness

Presentations are scheduled through NAMI affiliates in the state with presenters who have completed the training.  For more information about In Our Own Voice or to inquire about presenter trainings, please contact Brenda Walker, IOOV Program Director, 1-800-451-9682, bwalker@naminc.org.