Positive messages and success stories about individuals with mental illness who have found hope and recovery are helpful for other who may feel less optimistic. They can help ease worry about future outcomes, and provide role models.

Here are a couple of videos that provide very sunny stories to inspire you: the first is a production from SAMHSA (who also brought us the super-cheerful web site What a Difference a Friend Makes) along with a handful of other government partners. The University of Washington hosts the video, available to download or watch streaming online. It begins with a message from the Governor about how valuable employees with mental illness are, and concludes with people beaming and waving sparklers, in between telling the stories of three people with mental illness who’ve gone back to work. Check it out: I Want to Be.

The other video is also from the Pacific Northwest. Stories of Strength spotlights several people in recovery in Vancouver, BC. Being provided an apartment, that allows pets, in prime downtown real estate near the beach, has been very helpful to a woman recovering from addiction.

I feel an urge to go dance through a meadow now.

No, but seriously, excuse my cynicism – housing and employment supports can be absolutely crucial to recovery and wellness. These videos are quite inspiring, so if you’re feeling glum about your prospects there is hope, and here are some people who provide it.

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» Optimistic Recovery Videos (5/29/2008)

» Optimistic Recovery Videos (5/30/2008)

    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 29 May 2008
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.