adult

Services for adults with severe and persistent mental illness are based on evidence that major mental illness are brain diseases, which result in chronic illness. Symptoms are often life long, causing impairment in the persons' thought process and their ability to function in expected daily life activities, including employment, independent living and interpersonal relationships. Eligibility require- ments include a diagnosis of serious mental illness accompanied by poor social and occupational functioning and a history of or expectation of persistence of the illness over time. With appropriate treatment, rehabilitation and support, individuals can live successful lives in the community.