Recovery & wellness
The NAMI Chicago recovery model
At NAMI Chicago, our approach to mental health is centered on what it means for all people to be well and to sustain that wellness every day.
This is a shift from the traditional medical model, which focuses primarily on illness and treatment. Instead, we lead with a recovery-oriented, person-centered approach that recognizes the full context of a person’s life.
Our model builds on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) framework, which identifies Health, Home, Community, and Purpose as key foundations of wellness. We expand this framework by placing equity at the center, recognizing that access to housing, care, safety, and opportunity directly impacts a person’s ability to be well.
When equity is present across systems, wellness becomes possible for all.
Bringing our recovery model to life
Our recovery model is more than a philosophy. It shows up in how we work every day, in every interaction, program, and service. We bring this model to life by centering people, choice, and connection in everything we do.
Peer-led support
Lived experience is at the heart of our work. Many of our services are led by individuals with their own mental health recovery journeys, also known as peers. This creates spaces where people feel understood, respected, and less alone, while building trust and real connection.
Person-centered care
We recognize that each person’s path to wellness is unique. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we:
People are not defined by a diagnosis. They are supported as whole individuals.
Community-based support
Recovery happens in the community, not in isolation. Our programs are designed to help individuals:
We focus on helping people not just live in the community, but feel part of it.
Focus on the whole person
Mental health is connected to many areas of life. We support individuals in building stability across areas like housing, relationships, purpose, and daily living, creating a strong foundation for long-term wellness.
Commitment to equity
Equity is central to our recovery model. Access to care, housing, safety, and opportunity are not equally distributed. We actively work to reduce barriers and create inclusive, culturally responsive spaces where all individuals have the opportunity to achieve wellness.
Partnership, not hierarchy
We work alongside individuals, not above them. Our role is to support, not direct. Through collaboration, encouragement, and shared decision-making, individuals lead their recovery and build lives that are meaningful to them.
Recovery in action
At NAMI Chicago, recovery looks like:
Recovery is not just something we talk about. It is something we practice together.
Wellness
Wellness is about more than health. It’s about supporting the whole person, including the emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual aspects of our lives.
By integrating the dimensions of wellness into everyday life, individuals can:
Wellness is not a destination. It’s an ongoing journey. We are here to support individuals in creating lives that feel meaningful, sustainable, and self-directed.
Learn more about recovery, wellness, and the supports available across NAMI Chicago:
YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN
Peer support
Join a support group to talk with people who understand what you’re going through. These spaces are open, welcoming, and led by people with lived experience.
Classes, trainings & presentations
Take a class or training to learn more about mental health, build practical skills, and support yourself or someone you care about.
Events & community gatherings
Join us at events across Chicago to connect with others, learn more about mental health, and be part of the NAMI Chicago community.