In the US alone, mental illness impacts 1 in 4 families. Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression), anxiety disorders or chronic depression affect 12 to 16 million Americans. In the United States, mental illness is the second leading cause of disability and premature mortality. The cost of mental health problems is estimated to be a staggering $20 billion per year.

Individuals with a severe and persistent mental illness often have difficulty meeting their basic living needs. Many experience functional impairments and skill deficits, are estranged from family and natural sources of help and lack sufficient financial resources to regularly secure food, shelter, clothing and related goods on their own. In addition to these challenges, individuals suffering from mental illness must cope with symptoms including hallucinations, paranoia, hearing voices and believing in a reality all their own. Untreated self-help mechanisms are varied and at times detrimental. Individuals will often self medicate using illegal drugs or alcohol, turn to ineffective treatment from non-specialist physicians and attempt to maintain a state of denial and avoidance. Systemic roadblocks to treatment and acceptance include the inaccessibility of effective treatment, restrictive or inadequate insurance coverage and the stigma of mental illness.

Synod Residential Services’ commitment to the mentally ill began at the company’s founding, when two residential aides from the Ypsilanti State Hospital brought 15 mentally ill men out of the hospital and into a single group home they called Synod House.

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