(Not Currently Offered In Kauai)
In Our Own Voice (IOOV) is a unique public education presentation that offers insight into the hope and recovery possible for people living with mental illness. Trained individuals living with mental illness lead a brief, yet comprehensive and interactive, presentation about mental illness.
IOOV is dedicated to the support, education, and growth of consumers as presenters. The personal educational component of the program helps people living with mental illness to grow and learn from one another. The power of IOOV is based on the sharing of journeys. When presenters share their stories of recovery, they offer hope, educate, open minds, and change attitudes. They also understand with better clarity the hope and possibilities for themselves and others.
Why Consumers as Presenters
Who better to talk about having a mental illness than people in recovery? We are the experts on our own illnesses. We know what has and has not worked for us. Audiences benefit from IOOV presentations because they learn first-hand what it means to have a serious mental illness and that recovery is possible. We become role models of hope while reducing stigma by giving compelling personal testimony that demonstrates courage and perseverance.
Benefits of Becoming an IOOV Presenter
As a presenter, you will likely experience some personal benefits as you learn to present your story. Giving IOOV presentations may help build your self-esteem; you may become more educated about your own illness and the illness of others; you may learn new coping strategies. There are many ways to grow as an IOOV presenter.
Objectives of the Training
a) Tell your personal story using the five recovery steps highlighted in the video.
b) Prepare to present to various audiences.
c) Learn communication and facilitation skills that will aid your presentation.
d) Gain confidence and self-efficacy as a person with a unique and powerful story to share.
For more information or to sign up for the class, please contact Program Director, Kathy Sheffield at [email protected] or (808) 635-3239.