Shadow Voices: Finding Hope in Mental Illness

Not too long ago, mental illness was considered to be a hopeless, deteriorating condition: patients were simply warehoused in asylums, isolated from their families. During the 1960s, the deinstitutionalization movement (in which the mentally ill were released into the community) was seen as a big breakthrough, but some patients ended up being sent to another form of asylum, the prison system. Today, mental health professionals realize that recovery is possible, although mental illness remains “the only illness in the world where you never get a covered dish.” Shadow Voices is a splendid, comprehensive overview that looks at both the history of treating mental illness and current programs offering new alternatives, while also presenting 10 eloquent testimonials from people who are schizophrenic, bipolar, obsessive compulsive, or have other conditions, who lead productive lives even as they continue to struggle with affliction. In addition, the documentary features commentary from professional heath experts, looks at awareness education for police and clergy, and notes the need for health insurance reform. While Shadow Voices is presented from a Christian perspective, its content is universal. DVD extras include bonus material on how churches can help, the importance of support from family and friends, personal profiles of participants, and a PDF discussion guide. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)