ABOUT SARDAA
History
In January 2008, a steering committee of consumers, families, and providers across the US formed to create an organization dedicating to improving the lives of people with schizophrenia and related disorders. On February 28, 2008, the steering committee named the new organization Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America (SARDAA). In March 2008, the SARDAA Board of Directors was formed, and a part-time consultant was retained to build the organization. In May 2008, SARDAA was incorporated as a non-stock corporation in Maryland.
The Schizophrenia Alliance (SA), founded by Joanne Verbanic in 1985, is a self-help/peer support 6-step program run by and for persons who have schizophrenia or a related illness. Since 1985, thousands of people have been supported by more than 150 groups that meet throughout 31 states, as well as in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, France, Russia, Germany, India, and Venezuela. SARDAA had adopted SA as its signature program, as there was no nationally-supported parent organization to provide the support, materials, training and outreach.
SARDAA continues to grow and develop while daily contacts for information regarding schizophrenia-related disorders from consumers, family members, professionals and other interested individuals are answered.
Recovery
“Recovery does not mean cure…”
“…rather recovery is an attitude, a stance and a way of approaching the day’s challenges.”
Patricia Deegan PhD (1996. pp.96-97)
A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness and strive to reach their full potential.
Mission and Vision
The Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America promotes improvement in lives affected by schizophrenia-related brain illnesses (mental illnesses involving psychosis). SARDAA promotes hope and recovery through support programs, education, collaboration, and advocacy.
Our vision is that every person living with a schizophrenia-related brain disorder receives respect, appropriate treatment and an opportunity to live a meaningful and satisfying life in a compassionate community free of discrimination.
Accomplishments
- Speaking opportunities have amazed people as they discover their lack of understanding of what schizophrenia-related illnesses are and are grateful for demystifying and enlightening them. Personal contact has gained momentum to eliminate stigma and discrimination.
- Weekly SA Group Conference calls and Family and Friends Support Conference Calls have increased in participation from 2 participants to 16 in each call including some international participants. Connection with others affected by schizophrenia-related disorders has supported people to re-engage with their treatment provider.
- We have developed relationships with multiple stakeholders including: Mental Health America (MHA) national organization and multiple local organizations, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) national organization and multiple local organizations, NHMH (No Health without Mental Health), National Alliance to End Homelessness, World Fellowship For Schizophrenia And Allied Disorders National Institute of Mental Health, MayoClinic.com, Genetic Study National Institute of Mental Health site, Pete Earley, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, No Kidding Me too! (NKM2), Matters of the Mind, Australian Suicide Call Back Service, American Self-Help Group Clearinghouse, Mind Your Mind, Urban Mental Health Initiative, Canvas, the movie, WebMD, Bring Change 2 Mind, The Banyan, Bureau of Justice Assistance.
You are Not Alone
Our vision is that every person living with a schizophrenia-related brain disorder achieves recovery and a fulfilling life in a compassionate community free of stigma and discrimination.