Authors: Elyse Williams, Genevieve Dingle, Renee Calligeros, Leah Sharman, Jolanda Jetten
Year: 2017
Event: 2017 TheMHS Conference
Subject: Wellbeing,Lived Experience, Recovery,Research & Evaluation Informing Practice
Type of resource: Conference Presentations and Papers
Abstract: The School of Hard Knocks runs arts-based programs for disadvantaged adults experiencing marginalisation, social isolation, chronic mental health conditions, and substance abuse. There is emerging evidence that arts-based programs are helpful in mental health treatment. We conducted a qualitative study to explore how participating in these programs could facilitate mental health recovery processes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 choir members, and 23 creative writing group members at two time points. Participants who had dropped out of the group were also contacted for a telephone interview. A thematic analysis revealed that participating in the groups provided psychological resources which led to improvements in mental health, social capital and life aspirations. Challenges relating to attending and connecting with the group were also identified. These findings were explored in relation to theoretical perspectives on social and creative engagement in mental health contexts.
Learning Objectives
Learning Objective 1: Learn the psychological resources that participants can gain from arts-based groups
Learning Objective 2: Understand how these resources can facilitate mental health recovery
References
Van Lith, T., Schofield, M. J., & Fenner, P. (2013). Identifying the evidence-base for art-based practices and their potential benefit for mental health recovery: a critical review. Disability and Rehabilitation, 35(16), 1309-1323
Leckey, J. (2011). The therapeutic effectiveness of creative activities on mental well-being: a systematic review of the literature. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 18(6), 501-509
This resource is only available for subscribers. If you have a subscription, please log in. Otherwise, click here to purchase a subscription.