Recovery Stories
NEC receives many requests each week of people looking for information on recovery from mental illness. We believe one of the most helpful resources is to hear the stories of those who have an actual experience of recovery. For that reason we are excited to begin a new page on our website dedicated to the stories of some folks who have had an experience of severe emotional anguish some call “mental illness” and who have had the experience of recovery. Their words can tell you most authentically about the real experience of recovery. As you read several stories, perhaps you will notice certain themes that may help you in your own recovery. May you receive hope and inspiration from their stories.
If you would like to have your story considered for the website please send it to the National Empowerment Center by using our Contact Form for Recovery Stories.
My Recovery from Schizophrenia
My name is Jesse, and my story begins at the age of twelve. During this time in my life I had searched for new friends and opportunities in the world around me. It was a
Oryx Cohen’s Recovery Story from the SCI Oral History project
Oryx Cohen MPA Born: August 13 1973 Currently Doing: Oryx was the Director of the MindFreedom Oral History project, as well as a participant. He co-founded the Freedom Center in Northampton, the Pioneer Valley's only
Renee Kopache’s Recovery Story
The following is the story of Renee Kopache, who in a ten year period was hospitalized 40 times, was on nearly 40 different medications, survived three suicide attempts and 23 ECT’s, and many experiences of
Rita Brooks, BS, CPS
I AM NOT BIPOLAR Harmful Effects of Research Studies In 1992 I had my first psychotic episode. I was hospitalized for 10 days and released with the diagnosis of Psychotic Episode. At that time in
Will Hall’s Recovery Story
Since I was a child I've struggled with extreme emotions, voices, and powerful out of body experiences. I remember falling to the ground once in third grade, writhing in agony because I believed something was
A tale of two boys
By Laurie Ahern This is a tale of two boys-two young men to be completely truthful. One is well known to me-the son of a close friend of mine-we'll call him Jack. And the other,