Recreation for mental health recovery

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this paper is to articulate a rationale for increased collaboration between the mental health system and recreation system by embracing recovery-oriented practice. We provide practical examples of the potential for this collaboration from our current ‘Recreation for Mental Health’ project. For example, recreation programs intended for individuals with mental health problems should be informed by individuals in the recreation sector, mental health sector and individuals with mental illnesses. As such, programming should reflect current understandings of recovery-oriented care, the benefits of recreation for mental health and consider the perspectives of those living with mental health problems. Additionally, opportunities for recreation engagement can be supported in ‘community arenas’: recreation spaces where individuals with mental health problems are not thought of or identified as mental health consumers and where they can fully participate in safe and supportive recreation envir...