In my previous post I promised I would talk a bit about the recovery approach.
I guess in order to make my point about why peer led services are consistent with recovery principles, I'll need to define recovery. Defining recovery is a tough one, if you read the literature you will not find a single consistent definition. However, it's usually described as a complex, non-linear journey or process that involves the following aspects:
1) Hope for the future
2) Healing of self-identity
3) Empowerment
4) Re-connection with the larger community
5) Rediscovery of meaning
6) Regardless of symptoms experienced
(Deegan, 1988; Jacobson & Greenley, 2001; O’Hagan, 2001)
I think that entering into a perspective that values one's past experiences as a service user, and recognising how that can help someone else, is really important for recovery. Attending and receiving training in order to best perform that role, well as an OT I think that's a fantastic way to gain some skills which augment your past experiences in order to regain a sense of productivity and contribution to society. I just imagine if I were a service user and I had been plagued by depression and I've been disconnected and isolated (as many are), well getting back into work would be a great way to rebuild my confidence, my sense of self-efficacy and I'll be able to contribute. It's also reaching out and connecting with others.
Like my previous post pointed out, the service users who access peer services will benefit but it's also an act of empowerment for the person who's recovered and wants to give back. The best part is (see bold point #6 above) this is all regardless of symptoms. So to be recovered, you don't have to be entirely perfect and back to fantastic all the time. It's okay to still be on your journey even as you help others. It's about starting the journey, I reckon, taking a step to recover some hope and reclaim aspects of your identity. That's the part I really like. Of course this all resonates with the OT in me, as it's occupational justice being served, and it's increasing occupational participation. It's about empowerment, it's about (re)gaining a voice as service users, it's about reducing some of the stigma and disadvantage of being a mental health service user by showing that hey I HAVE got something to offer. That is incredible, and I'm so glad it's finally, finally happening.
References
Jacobson, N. & Greenley, D. (2001). What is recovery? A conceptual model and explication [Electronic version]. Psychiatric Services, 52, 482-485. Retrieved from http://www.psychservices.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/52/4/482
O’Hagan, M. (2001). Recovery competencies for New Zealand mental health workers [Electronic version]. Wellington: Mental Health Commission. Retrieved from http://www.mhc.govt.nz/Resources/Publications/Workforce
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