Without adequate training and support, consumer leaders are bound to run into serious problems.
Leadership is like any other skill, in that it can be taught, honed and improved on over time.
One issue that many consumer leaders have to watch out for is the tendency to take on too much of the work and not allow the other members of the group the chance to learn and apply new skills. Management is like leadership in that it is a big job that can be broken down and learned in practical, incremental steps. The same study also suggested that state mental health authorities and providers need to be educated as to how they can help consumers start up more of their own programs. While national leadership has an important role to play in monitoring legislation, educating decision makers and providing input on issues that impact consumers, self-help organizations are much more in need of acquiring the kinds of practical skills and connections they need in order to make it through the day. She suggests utilizing supports like direct-action community organizers and organizing trainers for technical assistance to groups looking to impact the mental health system.