It has been ten years since the
release of the New Freedom Commission on Mental Health (2003); at that time,
the commission recommended a policy shift that would transform the mental
health field and support a recovery-oriented approach. The current definition
of recovery from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMSHA) is “A process of change
through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a
self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential;” therefore, when individuals go through the process of change
the positive benefits that they experience to their mental, physical, and
social health is their recovery. An analysis of the recovery system for
individuals with a “neurobiological disorder” [1]
reveals that (1) there is not adequate funding for individuals with a
neurobiological disorder; (2) there needs to be more education and training for
individuals with a neurobiological disorder and professionals; as well as, accountability
for professionals that do not promote recovery and follow the evidence based
practices; and (3) society needs to reduce the stigma and fear that surrounds a
neurobiological disorder, because evidence shows that change is possible. The
components of recovery help to empower individuals with a neurobiological
disorder to learn about their diagnosis, available resources, and to advocate
for themselves. It is estimated that one in four adults, age 18 and older,
suffer from a diagnosable neurobiological disorder in a given year; thereby,
making it important to continue understanding and researching all facets of neurobiological
disorders.
[1]
“Neurobiological
disorder” refers to a diagnosis given to any person, who currently or at any
time during the past year, have had a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or
emotional disorder that would meet diagnostic criteria specified in the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM - V).
This term is not meant to be derogatory or demeaning to people who are dealing
with mental health challenges.
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