Overcomer Number Two
Description of this Overcomer:
Long history of serious mental illness*Frequent incarcerations
Homelessness*Limited family support*Low income*Chronic health concerns

Background
Many people take getting a job and staying out of jail for granted. However,
During the active phase of a serious mental illness, you may think and act in ways that you normally would not. Depending on your symptoms you may get into a fight, spend money excessively, or leave your house with no clothes on. After the active phase has passed you may look back at your behavior and feel embarrassment and shame. Sometimes depending on the symptoms you may find yourself in the legal system/jail many times for petty crimes.
For people living with an untreated mental illness, things like working, going to school, having a family or avoiding the legal system can be difficult.

Some individuals with a serious mental illness have challenges with the law not because they are “criminals” but because the symptoms of their untreated mental illness impact their ability to follow directions or to focus on conversations. Those who are homeless or living on the street may come in contact with law enforcement or dangerous people through no fault of their own. Unfortunately, in 2023 Jail is a far too common reality for many who have been impacted by an untreated mental illness.
This overcomer who wrote this letter above was one of those people. He had been arrested several times and was unable to work. But for the last several years he has been in the recovery phase of his illness. He has been attending groups, meeting with his mental health team, making friends, and living his life to the fullest.

Mental illness is treatable