North Carolina General Statutes
Article 1B - Transitions to Community Living.
§ 122C-20.5 - Definitions.

122C-20.5. Definitions.
The following definitions apply in this Article:
(1) Individual with serious and persistent mental illness or SPMI. - A person who is 18 years of age or older who meets one of the following criteria:
a. Has a mental illness or disorder that is so severe and chronic that it prevents or erodes development of functional capacities in primary aspects of daily life such as personal hygiene and self-care, decision making, interpersonal relationships, social transactions, learning, and recreational activities.
b. Is receiving Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Income due to mental illness.
(2) Individual with serious mental illness or SMI. - An individual who is 18 years of age or older with a mental illness or disorder that is described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, that impairs or impedes functioning in one or more major areas of living and is unlikely to improve without treatment, services, supports, or all three. The term does not include a primary diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia. (2013-397, s. 6(a).)

Structure North Carolina General Statutes