Empowerment education for individuals with serious mental illness.

1. Traditionally, health education for people who have a serious mental illness has been teacher-driven and illness focused. However, nurses are challenged to shift toward learner-driven and health-focused formats. 2. Through an empowerment education process, a group of people who experience mental illness can find greater meaning in their lives. Increased relationships, more integration with self-chosen work activities, and self-reflection creates a purpose in their lives. 3. An ongoing supportive environment is essential in the journey toward self-responsibility and meaning.