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Self Determination: The Time has Come

Alternatives 2004, Achieving the Promise of Recovery: New Freedom, New Power, New Hope

Presented By: Peter C. Ashenden, Executive Director, MHEP

Developed by: Peter C. Ashenden and Amy Colesante

The President’s New Freedom Commission

“We envision a future when everyone with a mental illness will recover… and at any stage of life has access to effective treatment and supports – essentials for living, working, learning, and participating fully in the community”

Self-Determination

“…Attitudes that lead people to define goals for themselves and their ability to achieve those goals…” -M.J. Ward

Components of Self-Determination

• Respect
• Choice
• Ownership
• Support

“Self-Determination is what life is all about.  Without it, you might be alive, but you wouldn’t be living – you would just be existing” -Michael Kennedy

Self Determination: The Foundation of Self-Help

The self help continuum encompasses a wide variety of activities, structures, and networks that form a continuum

Shown from left to right under a double headed arrow depicting the continuum: Personal Medicine, and Self Directed Recovery; Self Help Groups, Peer Support, and Natural Supports; Recipient-run programs and initiatives

Values of Recipient Run Initiatives

• The Sharing of a common bond
• Persons who use services have a significant voice in planning, development and evaluation of the services
• Mutuality between staff and persons who are using services
• Environment distinguished by openness and personal choice
• Respect for individual dignity and a spirit of liberation
• An environment that embraces cultural diversity
• A governing and operating structure that demonstrates shared decision-making, flexibility, integrity and confidentiality

Outcomes of Recipient Operated Programs

• Workgroup convened in 2001
• Important Factors
  • Quality of life
  • Confidence
  • Spiritual change
  • Hope
  • Perception change

White Paper Rules

• There must be Informed Choice
• It Must be Recovery Focused
• It Must be Person Centered
• Do No Harm
• There Must be Free Access to Records
• It Must be Based on a System of Trust
• It Must Have a Focus on Cultural Values
• It Must be Knowledge Based
• It Must be Based on a Partnership
• There Must be Access to Services Regardless of Ability to pay

…make our vision, their vision

If you would like any of the material used in this presentation contact us at www.mhepinc.org or call 1-800-MHEPINC.

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Mental Health Empowerment Project, Inc
116 Everett Rd, Suite 7
Albany, NY 12205
Phone: 518-434-1393 or 1-800-MHEP-INC
Fax: 518-434-3823

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