Knowledge from the experience of mental illness as an opportunity to take on a different social role. An example of the psychological and social functioning of self-help groups for people with mental illness

Abstract

Thesis. A person experiencing a mental illness has knowledge gained from their own experience, which can be used as a resource to help others and strengthen themselves.

Concepts discussed. Increasingly, people have experiences related to mental illness and its psychological and social consequences. Nevertheless, society still presents a mostly negative attitude towards people experiencing mental health problems. An important problem is also the stigmatization of this group and its effects. Experiencing mental illness, however, is associated with the acquisition of personal knowledge, which can be used to help, for example, other people who are ill. Such a possibility is provided by participation in self-help groups for mentally ill people. These groups support the recovery process, and they can also empower the individual and allow them to counteract the negative effects of the illness and use the personal potential and experience of their own recovery process.

Results and conclusions. Activities based on a person’s own knowledge gained during the mental illness experience make it possible to take advantage of the difficult situation connected with the disease.

 Originality. Mental illnesses and their consequences are an important problem, their effects affect individuals and the whole of society. The subject of self-help groups of people suffering from mental illness is still developing on the Polish science.

Key words: self-help groups for people suffering from mental illness, stigmatization, empowerment