Illness Management and Recovery (IMR) is a program that teaches coping and self-management skills. This program helps people with serious mental health conditions. IMR focuses on helping people stay in treatment and improve their quality of life.
IMR is included in many addiction treatment programs to help individuals and their families with long-term mental health concerns. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, contact The Right Step Houston at [DIrect] today to learn more about our IMR program and how it can help you or your loved one.
What is IMR?
Illness Management and Recovery (IMR) teaches people to manage mental health or substance use issues. It includes skills for:
• Identifying early warning signs of a relapse
• Making and following a treatment plan
• Managing symptoms and stress
• Improving quality of life
IMR can help people with serious mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It may also help people who have co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
IMR is based on the following principles:
- People with mental illness can recover
- Recovery happens through a process of healing and change
- Recovery is possible for everyone, no matter how long they have been ill
- People with mental illness have strengths and abilities that can be used in the recovery process
Aspects of an IMR Program
An IMR program strives to help people with mental health issues be their best through a variety of techniques. The following are aspects of the IMR program:
• Focuses on the person as a whole, not just their diagnosis
• Builds on strengths and resilience
• Encourages people to take an active role in their recovery
• Involves family and friends in the treatment process, if desired
• Uses a team approach that may include mental health
IMR lessons try to help families get involved. People do better with treatment when family members stay connected, and family members give better support when they learn more about the issues.
How Can IMR Help with Substance Use Disorders?
Substance use disorders are chronic conditions. The IMR program teaches people how to live with long-term issues. Treatment helps, but it doesn’t cure addiction.
IMR can help with substance use disorders by teaching people how to:
• Set goals for sobriety and early warning signs of a relapse
• Choose safe environments and activities
• Make and follow a plan for using fewer drugs or alcohol
How Does IMR Help with Dual Diagnosis Clients?
A dual diagnosis client is a person with both substance use and mental health issues. Both conditions are related and can affect each other. A one-sided approach to recovery makes relapse more likely. A stable and healthy lifestyle is vital for recovery. The structure in the IMR program can help dual diagnosis clients stay on track.
The IMR program can help dual diagnosis clients by teaching them how to:
• Set goals for sobriety and early warning signs of a relapse
• Choose safe environments and activities
• Make and follow a plan for using fewer drugs or alcohol
Learn About IMR at The Right Step Houston
At The Right Step Houston, our mission is to deliver innovative, transparent treatment to those who need it. We will walk alongside you on your journey to wellness. Our IMR program is just one of the ways we can help you achieve recovery.
If you or your loved one is seeking substance use treatment, we are here to support you. Call us today at 1.844.768.0169 to speak with our recovery specialist about getting the help you need to start your journey to wellness. You don’t have to do this alone. We can help.