Sioux Falls Woman Isn’t Controlled by Mental Illness

Penny Hall of Sioux Falls suffers from bipolar disorder, a chronic mental illness that causes dramatic shifts in a person’s mood, energy and ability to think clearly.

“I was diagnosed back in 1993. But, I didn’t do anything about it until 1999. I was living an unhealthy life. I was out there living in an addiction. But, when I became sober, I began dealing with the disorder.”

It was then when Penny became involved in NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness.

“I participated at first in the NAMI walk. Since then, NAMI has allowed me to be a presenter before groups. I can volunteer anytime I want.”

Penny, a state trainer for NAMI support groups, offers this message for those people with a mental illness.

“It’s actually helped me with my personal recovery by going out in the community and telling my story. I can hold my head up high and know that it’s all right to have a mental illness. There is hope!”

If you would like more information on mental illness, Penny Hall encourages you to call NAMI. The number is 605-271-1871.