Information Center Bulletin
Volume 1, No. 1 Winter 1996-97

A Tool For Empowerment for Consumers/Survivors

As you realize, knowledge is power. Knowledge can empower us, as mental health consumers/survivors, to gain new resources and to participate meaningfully in planning, implementing, and evaluating the programs and mental health service systems that so greatly affect our lives.

The National Mental Health Information Center represents a potent tool for consumers/survivors to get the information we need, when we need it. You can order publications by calling the Information Center at 1-800-789-CMHS (2647) or 866-889-2647 (TDD). Or you can download them from the Information Center's online sites, either through its electronic bulletin board system (BBS) at 1-800-790-CMHS (2647), or through the World Wide Web at http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/

Even those who own older computers and telecommunications equipment can reach the BBS. The BBS includes a forum where consumers/survivors can exchange ideas and share information. For example, we are beginning forum discussions on topics such as employment, managed care, and involuntary treatment.

The Information Center gives us one more avenue to work together to ensure we will have:

• A voice in our treatment plans and mental health service systems;
• Access to quality care;
• Choice in selecting providers and services;
• Protected rights, such as confidentiality and safety from abuse and neglect;
• A range of community-based services including self-help groups; and
• Culturally competent services based on our diverse needs and preferences.

These represent just the tip of the iceberg of issues in which we can--and must--make a difference to improve the quality of life for people who receive mental health services. So I invite you to use the Information Center --and help us improve it through constructive feedback.

Information Center Bulletin
Volume 1, No. 1