Personal accounts of consumer/survivors: Insights and implications

The personal accounts of people diagnosed with mental illness have much to teach practitioners. Based on the four articles in this issue, the expandin g literature of personal accounts, and the relevant professional literature , some of the salient themes are discussed. initially. the human context of mental illness is explored, including the diversity among those diagnosed with mental illness and the cataclysmic impact of such a diagnosis on indiv iduals. The recovery process also is examined, including the role of hope, locus of control, coping skills and strategies, and social support and self -help. Finally, the mental health system is considered, including the limit ations of the system, patienthood, professional roles and relationships, an d psychotherapy. implications for practitioners are noted. (C) 2000 John Wi ley & Sons, Inc.