It is important to remember that recovery from a mental illness is a process, not an event, and that the journey to recovery is different for each individual. 

For some, recovery is defined in medical and clinical contexts, while for others it is grounded in the context of community, or successful living. The individual nature of recovery must be honored. While serious mental illness impacts individuals in many ways, the idea that all individuals can move towards wellness is a vital part of ending stigma.

There are many different options available.The most widely known treatments include group and individual therapy. One of the greatest misconceptions is that help always includes medication. There is no treatment that works for everyone – it is most important that someone have a voice in choosing their treatment, or combination of treatments, that works best for them.


Self Help Plan – A self-help plan is a unique health plan where an individual addresses his or her condition by implementing strategies that promote wellness.  Self-help plans may involve addressing wellness, recovery, triggers or warning signs.

Peer Support – Peer Support refers to receiving help from individuals who have suffered from similar experiences.
 
Support Group – A support group is a group meeting where members guide each other towards the shared goal of recovery.  Support groups are often comprised of non-professionals, but peers that have suffered from similar experiences.
 
Psychotherapy – Psychotherapy is the therapeutic treatment of mental illness provided by a trained mental health professional.  Psychotherapy explores thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and seeks to improve an individual’s wellbeing.  Psychotherapy paired with medication is the most effective way to promote recovery.  Examples include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, etc.
 
Case Management – Case management coordinates services for an individual with the help of a case manager.  A case manager can help assess, plan, and implement a number of strategies to facilitate recovery.
 
Complementary & Alternative Medicine – Complementary & Alternative Medicine refers to treatment and practices that are not typically associated with standard care. These may be used in place of or addition to standard health practices.
 
Medication – Medication does not outright cure mental illness.  However, it may help with the management of symptoms.  Medication paired with psychotherapy is the most effective way to promote recovery.
 
Hospitalization – In a minority of cases, hospitalization may be necessary so that an individual can be closely monitored, accurately diagnosed or have medications adjusted when his or her mental illness temporarily worsens.