History

Awaiyr Overview

Founded in 2013 by Joseph Mathew, Ph.D, the American Center for Intellectual and Diverse Disorders (now known as AWAIYR) is an ongoing dream to promote the mental health of millions of Americans and those affected globally, 1 in 5 Americans, who have serious and persistent mental illnesses continues to be the focus. It also focuses on the 35% of people who have Intellectual Disability and co-occurring Mental Disorders in the US. For 20 years, Dr. Mathew managed another non-profit organization for individuals with Developmental Disabilities (CSC) in Maryland. He founded and headed the Center for Social Change from 1993 until he launched ACIDD in 2013 for people with Mental Disorders and co-occurring Intellectual disabilities. AWAIYR is his new focus on mental health globally. it challenges many traditional ways of service. It questions many adversaries in the field for new thinking.

AWAIYR has an experienced, voluntary Board of Directors that have previous experience working with individuals with diverse disorders. It is a tax-exempt organization with 501(c)3 status in the US. It organizes educational seminars, conferences, workshops, and training to bring awareness among people about mental health issues.

AWAIYR embraces all minds and empowers people with mental illness.

ACIDD in Maryland

ACIDD in Maryland (now known as (ACIDD) provides various support services that include behavioral health services-Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP), Day services-Mental Health Vocational Program (MHVP) for individuals with mental health issues, residential services, Community Development Services (CDS), Day Habilitation (DH), and Employment services for “the other dually diagnosed” high functioning individuals including transitioning youth with severe behavioral issues, and  Personal Support Services to individuals who choose to live in their own homes or with their families.  ACIDD also has a Psychotherapy service through our ACIDD Counseling Center. CARF International accredited all programs and services of ACIDD in Maryland until recently. However, during the pandemic, ACIDD decided to suspend the ongoing CARF accreditation temporarily. All programs uphold the protection of rights, independence, and empowerment of people with mental illness.

ACIDD in Florida

In 2017, ACIDD in Florida was formed to provide support services to individuals with Intellectual Disability and mental health issues. It has been licensed to operate various programs in Florida. Some of the programs include community-based Supported Employment, Supported Living, Community housing, and community integration services. It intends to begin services in 2023 in the Tampa region.

AWAIYR in Africa And Asia

AWAIYR in Africa and AWAIYR in  Asia (formerly Acidd Africa and Acidd Asia) are the two international entities that plan to support persons with mental illness in 2023. With COVID-19, People on these continents are in need of mental health services beyond one can imagine. Innovative mental health treatment is possible and affordable on these continents. A new approach to mental health is urgently needed across the continents against traditional or religious healing methods and outdated psychiatric hospitals. People need to access good quality and affordable care. Innovative methods and awareness and advanced treatment have to be increasingly introduced and it is possible. AWAIYR plans to launch its new program in May 2023.