5 - Psychiatric Rehabilitation Methods

Abstract

This chapter will outline the basic strategies involved in the rehabilitation of persons living with serious mental illnesses. In the past, most mental health professionals believed that symptoms should be ameliorated and long-term stability achieved before rehabilitation could begin. Today, as evidenced by the fact that many persons with serious mental illnesses lead full and productive lives, there is general agreement that rehabilitation should begin as soon as possible. There is also a growing body of evidence that there are many social, vocational, emotional, and psychological benefits to the rehabilitation process.