Mission & Guiding Principles
Our Goals and Mission are:
► To serve as a local Recovery resource, providing up to date information, training and individualized support to individuals in recovery, service providers, families and the community.
► To coordinate resources, establishing a mental health network where service providers and individuals in recovery work together to support one another and share ideas.
► To advocate for mental health state reform based on the principles of the Recovery Model.
► To make recommendations to local and state officials on ways to enhance the mental health system, making it “user friendly” and Recovery oriented.
► To add to the breadth of research regarding the efficacy of the Recovery Model on mental wellness.
► To provide HOPE that Recovery is possible.
► To provide a forum for individuals in recovery to have a voice and influence mental health reform.
► To recognize and highlight local agencies, professionals and peers who are leaders in Recovery.
Mecklenburg’s PROMISE adheres to the following principles developed by the Recovery Collaborative Sub-Committee:
Principle I: Partnership
People direct their own recovery process, therefore their input is essential and validated throughout the process without fear:
► A spirit of partnership and collaboration is supported throughout the person centered planning process.
► A team approach will be utilized to support each person to make educated decisions on their own behalf.
► All interactions will be supported through equality and mutual respect.
Principle II: Empowerment, Choice and Personal Responsibility
With support and education, people are independent and free to accept responsibility for their own recovery:
► People know themselves best and are encouraged to guide their own recovery.
► People are provided with options and supported to make decisions based on what they identify and prioritize as their own goals, wants and needs.
► People are provided options and choices, not final answers.
► People are free to voice their concerns and make their own decisions regarding programs, activities and treatment without being labeled.
Principle III: Respect, Dignity and Compassion
Each person has unique strengths, attributes, and challenges. Symptoms and illness are only one part of a person’s experience and is not what defines them:
► Individuality is appreciated and validated.
► Everyone’s beliefs, spirituality, culture and religion are honored.
► Sensitivity to each person's challenges and circumstances guide the support they are offered.
Principle IV: Hope and Optimism
Recovery is an ongoing process in achieving mental wellness. Relapse can be a natural part of the recovery process that all people can relate to and can learn from:
► People will be reminded that there are no limits to recovery and reassured that mental wellness is possible.
► People are encouraged to reflect and make informed decisions.
► Hope is essential. Even during relapse it lays the groundwork for healing to begin.
Principle V: Self-Acceptance, Personal Growth and Healing
Mental wellness is possible, in part, through self-awareness and acceptance. Personal forgiveness, self-confidence and self-esteem foster the healing process:
► People have opportunities to learn about themselves, not as defined by their illness or by the way others view them, but based on insight and self exploration.
► Through education about recovery, available resources and treatment options, people can change, grow and heal.
► Every person is supported to live a full, meaningful and productive life as defined by themselves.
► All successes, no matter how small, are recognized and celebrated.
Principle VI: Support
No person goes through life alone. We all rely on someone to talk to and people who care. Supportive teams will work together to create a “safety net.”
► Recovery from mental illness is most effective when a holistic approach is utilized.
► Family and friend involvement may enhance the recovery process. Each person defines their own family unit and support team.
► Peer to peer support is one of the most powerful and helpful tools for recovery.
► Creativity is key; support persons will work to offer creative solutions and options to meet a persons needs.
► All efforts will be made to keep people in their community, utilizing natural supports during wellness and crisis.