Recovery refers to the process in which people are able to live, work, learn, and participate fully in their communities. For some individuals, recovery is the ability to live a fulfilling and productive life despite a disability. For others, recovery implies the reduction or complete remission of symptoms. Science has shown that having hope plays an integral role in an individual’s recovery.
Unfortunately, many people with serious mental illnesses do not seek or receive treatment; in 2002 fewer than half of adults with serious mental illnesses received treatment for their mental health problem. The common reasons people do not seek treatment include cost, fear, not knowing where to go for services, and concern about confidentiality and the opinions of neighbors and community. This fear of what people may think — the stigma that surrounds mental illness — is a serious barrier to treatment and recovery. Fortunately everyone can do something to reduce stigma.