Context:

Arvind Sooknanan, diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, transformed his life from a series of psychiatric hospitalizations and homelessness to becoming a college graduate and a political campaign manager. Despite his mental health challenges, he successfully managed the campaign for Jenifer Rajkumar, the first South Asian woman elected to the New York State Legislature. His involvement with Fountain House, a supportive community for people with serious mental illnesses, played a pivotal role in his recovery and professional achievements. Sooknanan advocates for mental health reform, opposing involuntary commitments and promoting community-based support systems like Fountain House. He envisions a society where neighborhoods are run by and for individuals with mental illness, emphasizing acceptance and integration into everyday life.

Dive Deeper:

• Arvind Sooknanan, who struggled with schizoaffective disorder, initially dropped out of high school but later passed the G.E.D. test and earned a college degree, defying expectations and setting a precedent in his family.

• His journey to recovery was marked by multiple hospitalizations and periods of homelessness, yet he found stability and purpose through Fountain House, a community organization that empowers individuals with serious mental illnesses.

• Sooknanan managed the political campaign for Jenifer Rajkumar, demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication despite the personal challenges posed by his mental health condition, ultimately leading to her historic election victory.

• He actively participates in advocacy efforts, using his personal story to highlight the inadequacies of the current mental health care system and proposing the expansion of community-based support models over involuntary commitments.

• His vision includes creating 'mental health towns' where individuals with serious mental illnesses can live and work in an accepting environment, challenging societal stigmas and fostering inclusivity.

• Sooknanan's involvement with Fountain House not only provided him with a support network but also allowed him to contribute meaningfully to the organization and influence mental health policy discussions.

• Despite ongoing symptoms such as hearing voices, Sooknanan has accepted his condition as part of his life and remains focused on his goals, demonstrating resilience and the potential of individuals with mental health challenges to lead successful lives.