Helping the helpers. A unique colleague support system for mental health professionals-consumers

1. There are many professionals in the mental health workforce who have a mental illness themselves (prosumers), but who do not disclose that fact to their employers or colleagues for fear of stigma and discrimination. 2. Prosumers are in a particularly difficult situation; if they disclose, they risk being viewed as their illness, and if they do not disclose, they may not get the kinds of reasonable accommodations and support that would make their job more manageable. 3. Mutual support groups of colleagues are a viable and valuable way for prosumers to assist each other in coping with the stigma and stressors inherent in working in the mental health field.