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A Letter to the Editor Lately I have talked with several friends and colleagues about their various recoveries—from the flu, a sprained ankle, or an operation. For them, the steps they need to take in order to feel better (resting, staying off of their feet, or going to physical therapy) are clear. For them, there is little confusion about how to achieve recovery. However, when we talk about recovery from mental illness, there is often confusion about what this means. What is recovery for people with mental illness? For these individuals, recovery is the hope of healing, empowerment, and rebuilding connections—quite different than simple bed rest. But it is achievable nonetheless, often with the assistance of agencies like Family Service that provide recovery-oriented programs. These are programs that provide support and empower individuals to move towards recovery by working to relieve their symptoms, provide support, and enrich their lives. This edition of Healthy Mind features Family Service’s commitment in assisting those with mental illness in achieving their recovery goals. Programs such as the Transitional Learning Center (TLC) play an important role in recovery. TLC is a comprehensive psycho-social rehabilitation program that supports the recovery process for community residents who are experiencing mental illness. TLC, like other recovery-oriented programs, helps change despair into hope, and indifference into empowerment. Our communities are fortunate to have a variety of such programs available. The NAMI Drop-In Center, life skills and transitional employment programs, and various faith-based groups all play a valuable role in helping people recover. I am proud that Family Service is counted among these. Individuals can support the recovery process as well by supporting a positive culture of understanding and healing. We must remember that recovery from mental illness is not the same as recovery from the flu or from an injury. Rather, it is the ability to experience themselves as separate from their illness, and to feel a sense of self-determination and control. In all cases, though, the goals are the same: healing, health, and wellness. Sincerely,
Daniel J. Kill, LCSW, BCD Located at 120 S. Marion, Oak Park, Family Service & Mental Health Center of Oak Park & River Forest is a not-for-profit social service and mental health agency that provides counseling, psychiatric and prevention/education programs to men, women, youth and families. To learn more about our programs or to make an appointment, contact us at (708) 383-7500. 
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