Framework for Community Support Systems [PDF]

Community Support Systems for People with Severe Mental Disabilities: A Framework for Definition

June 1981

John O’Brien

The People:: A substantial number of adults experience severe, usually life long disability in social functioning which is labeledas chronic mental illness and realists in extended contracts with the mental health service system. These people are impaired in their ability to make and keep mutually satisfying and productive relationships with other people –families, friends, neighbors, employers, and human service workers.