Recovery and Empowerment for People with Psychiatric Disabilities

In this paper the concept of recovery from major mental illness and the empowerment process are explored. Subjective experiences from the author's own journey of recovery from mental illness as well as others are explored. The concept of recovery as a journey, not a destination or "cure" is emphasized. It is noted that one must recover not only from mental illness, but also from internalized stigma, low expectations and dehumanizing clinical practices. Suggestions for the clinical practitioner who wishes to support the recovery and empowerment process are also given.