WISCONSIN UNITED
for MENTAL HEALTH

Consumer Self-Help
Self-help groups are geared for mutual support, information, and growth. Self-help is based on the premise that people with a shared condition who come together can help themselves and each other to cope, with the two-way interaction of giving and receiving help considered advantageous. Self-help groups are peer led rather than professionally led.

As the number and variety of self-help groups has grown, so too has social science research on their benefits (Borkman, 1991). In general, participation in self-help groups has been found to lessen feelings of isolation, increase practical knowledge, and sustain coping efforts. 

Propelled by the growing consumer movement, consumer self-help extends beyond self-help groups. It also encompasses consumer-operated programs, such as drop-in centers, case management programs, outreach programs, businesses, employment and housing programs, and crisis services, among others.

Research:
Developing Statewide Consumer Networks
by LaVerne D. Miller and Latrease R. Moore, M.A.
Abstract: Statewide consumer networks (SCNs) that provide direct services, advocacy, and technical assistance to smaller consumer-operated services have emerged over the past 15 years. As states seek to include the “consumer voice” in systems transformation and to support consumer-operated services, the expertise, community-organizing, and advocacy skills offered by networks are assets to all stakeholders. This column examines models currently in use by SCNs in six states. It compares their developmental histories and organizational, leadership, and decision-making models to provide guidance to other states that wish to develop strategies for organizing, supporting, and sustaining SCNs. (Psychiatric Services 60:291–293, 2009)

Into the Thick of Things: Connecting Consumers to Community Life – A Compendium of Community Inclusion Initiatives for People with Psychiatric Disabilities at Consumer-Run Programs
Published by the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion of Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities (formerly the UPenn Collaborative on Community Integration). Based on a national survey of consumer-run programs, it offers examples of consumer-run services that have found innovative ways of helping people with psychiatric disabilities to reconnect with their communities. The TU Collaborative will offer trainings to other consumer-run programs that wish to develop their own community inclusion initiatives. The Compendium can be downloaded at http://www.tucollaborative.org/pdfs/COMPENDIUM_of_Innovative_CI_Projects_11-29_10.pdf


Wisconsin Organizations and Groups:
Wisconsin Peer Specialist Employment Institute - A Peer Specialist is a person who has not only lived the experience of mental illness but also has had formal training in the peer specialist model of mental health supports. Certification and resources for employers are some of the information and services offered.

The Grand Avenue Club (Milwaukee)
"An intentional community [in the clubhouse model] for adults who have experienced mental illness and those who are eager to share their journey."

Our Space, Inc. (Milwaukee) "a community living support service which was originally established in 1988 as a drop-in center to assist adults with mental health needs."

• Interested in becoming a Peer Support Specialist in the Milwaukee area?  Our Space offers training!  Click on this link to read their flyer.

United We Stand WI - An online public group dedicated to people with lived experience of mental illness and recovery living in Wisconsin

National Resources:
Older Adult Consumer Mental Health Alliance

Consumer Organization and Networking Technical Assistance Center

National Coalition of Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Organizations

National Association for Rights Protection and Advocacy

National Empowerment Center

National Mental Health Consumers’ Self-Help Clearinghouse

National Association of Peer Specialists