Hello from DC!  I am here for a very exciting training. You see, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey was one of the recipients of SAMHSA's Mental Health Transformation Grant.  This grant gave money to Peer Leaders to develop better mental health programs across the country that are Consumer-Driven, or lead with people in recovery from mental illness.  At this training, mental health peers and consumers from around the country are getting together to discuss how we can be better leaders of the mental health recovery movement.  It feels really good to be around others who have shared your journey and are now trying to help people to recover from mental illness.  The themes that are being discussed at this training are leadership, helping to move the Consumer Movement forward, and empowerment.  It certainly is empowering to know that the government is backing us in providing Peer Run services to those struggling with their mental health.  It is proof positive that Mental Health Peers can really get outcomes in terms of helping people who are struggling with their mental health to recover.  This is a very exciting time in our movement!

Be Well
~Emily