manaʻolana

About Mental Illnesses

The American Psychiatric Association defines mental illnesses as “health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior…associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities” (Leshner, 2019). Examples of mental illness include, but are not limited to: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Substance Abuse and Addiction Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Attachment Disorders, and Mood Disorders (Center for Mental Health Services Division of State and Community Systems Development, 2017).

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The Meaning of Manaʻolana

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Mana`olana is the Hawaiian word meaning “hope.” In the Hawaiian language, “mana`o” has several meanings, including “thought, mind, to think.” The Hawaiian word “lana” has several meanings, including “floating, calm, still.” Jointly, “mana`olana” figuratively translates to “hope.” (Nā Puke Wehewehe ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, 2019)

About this Website

This website was designed by a Hawai`i mother for the benefit of other parents and caregivers in the state of Hawai`i whose children live with mental illness. As parents of children with mental illness, there are times when we feel as if all hope is lost. Living with and caring for a child with a mental illness affects the entire family, and no parent should walk this journey alone. There are others who understand.  Resources are available, and there is no shame in asking for help.

The manaʻolana website is dedicated to Hawai`i’s parents and the “villages” who care for children with a mental illness. May you find the information and resources to be beneficial and helpful for you and your child, and may you believe that each new day brings a fresh start and a renewed sense of hope. 

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

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