Mental Illness Support Available in Sioux Falls

Those who suffer from mental illness can retreat into shadowy places. One Sioux Falls woman wants to help lead people back to the light.

Penny Hall is a volunteer with the National Alliance on Mental Illness who has experience with her own fight with the darkness.

"I used to suffer when I was first diagnosed. When I first started taking care of it, I didn't know how to live. There were all those questions. I was afraid and I felt like I was damaged goods. That's a good way to explain it."

Eventually coming to terms with her condition, Hall commits herself to be that advocate for others who are going on a similar journey.

"I live with a mental illness. I know how to use my coping skills. I've learned how to ask for help. I love going out and speaking. I want people to know they are not alone. I accept that I'm going to live with a mental illness for the rest of my life, but I have tools to stay in recovery."

Support groups are available for those in need. They are 90 minute sessions meant to be a place for encouragement.

The sessions take place on Sunday evening, Monday midday, Tuesday evening and late afternoon on Thursday at various locations.