Mental Health Recovery

We produce and distribute video-based educational programs and related materials. A non-profit organization, we are committed to helping people deal with the often devastating effects of serious mental illness. Since 1990, our mission has been to increase understanding and improve the care and mental health recovery of those affected by this illness. Our products are intended for a wide range of people, including:

• People with a psychiatric condition,
• Family members and friends,
• Professionals and students,
• Special audiences such as legislators,
• health administrators and educators,
• The general public.

The Project's videotapes are designed to be used in hospital, clinical and educational settings, and by individuals and families. Low prices ensure that anyone concerned with psychiatric illness can afford to purchase the tapes. Written guides with each videotape provide further insights and resources. All proceeds from the sale of MIEP videos go toward the production of new educational materials.

Poor psychiatric health enters the lives of at least one in four families. Mental illness care is often marginal and the quality of mental health programs varies widely. Severe psychiatric illness -- schizophrenia, manic depression (bipolar disorder), or severe depression - afflicts 12 to 16 million Americans with hallucinations and delusions, disordered thinking, irrational fears, or suicidal depressions.

People with psychiatric disabilities These individuals are badly served by the popular media. Videotapes and other materials made with the help of people recovering from mental illness will provide needed support, information, and encouragement.

Families While families are an important support for their mentally ill relative, they are often excluded from the health-care process, and their concerns are frequently ignored. Alienated from their ill relative, they feel guilty, stigmatized and terrified. With better understanding of the illness, family members can become knowledgeable and confident members of the treatment team.

Mental health professionals Professionals need to know more about what families with mentally ill members face. As professionals learn ways to empower families and patients by actively involving them in treatment and recovery, they can acquire and communicate a more hopeful, constructive perspective to families and patients.

Special audiences Legislators, educators and health administrators need to know the possibilities and requirements of good care. Informed decision makers will allocate money, personnel and other resources more effectively, improving care and saving tax dollars.

The general public The media is filled with sensational stories of "crazy" killers or talented people gone "mad". Rarely do these stories give insight into what it's like to be mentally ill or to have an ill family member. The general public needs a restored sense of empathy and community in which the different -- people with mental illness -- have a place.

We recognize that this is a considerable undertaking in an area of great need. We invite you to join our effort and welcome your inquiries, your suggestions and your financial support.