A critical analysis of the Tidal Model of Mental Health Recovery

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the Tidal Model of Mental Health Recovery. This examination consolidates the existing knowledge used in developing and implementing this model in order to add clarity and explores how its theory relates to practice, research, and educational activities. This paper follows Chinn and Kramer's theory analysis framework, which includes the following criteria: clarity, simplicity, generalizability, importance, and accessibility. While the Tidal Model theory meets the criterion of clarity, simplicity is impeded due to the complexity of its concepts. That being said, Barker's theory is applicable across different psychiatric nursing settings because it is general and accessible. To enhance simplicity and make this a more actionable mid-range theory, an illustration is offered to demonstrate how the theory could be utilized and empiricized with a potential population of women who use substances. It is concluded that the Tidal Model appeals not only to mental health practice, but as the literature indicates, it also supports everyone who needs shelter where they feel safe at some point in their lives.