Theme A
Autonomy within Boundaries
In community housing, it’s vital to balance clear routines and boundaries with fostering client autonomy. By engaging clients as equals and involving them in shaping their daily lives, we improve their self-worth, personal growth, and overall mental well-being.
“There were activities … different from staying in bed … If you’re in a framework, you have to function in all things … some change happens that I can’t explain. The change happens on its own through movement.”
A.B. (Client)
Theme B
Meaning
A sense of meaning is a fundamental aspect of a positive mental well-being experience. It encompasses two main aspects: being significant to others by contributing to their environment, and personal growth by having a sense of direction and self-development.
“A very big meaning in the lives of people around me … I volunteer there and I feel that I’m important there, that I’m significant… my presence is meaningful to the people around me. It gives me great well-being.”
A.A. (Client)
Theme C
Human support
Human support is critical for the mental well-being of clients. It includes 3 pillars: facility staff, peer group and family. A holistic approach that sees the individual beyond their diagnosis, and social connections that gives a sense of legitimacy in struggles.
“First and foremost, the staff members look at the person as a human being, eye-to-eye, and don’t label them as sick… Instead, they look holistically at all aspects of life, not just through the mental disorder.”
O.B. (Client)
Theme D
Resilience
Clients primarily perceive resilience as the ability to accept difficult situations as they are and to cope with crises or challenging life circumstances. Developing these abilities brings a sense of balance and promotes personal accountability and a sense of self-worth.
“I’m more in acceptance, less in resistance… I try to accept it without thoughts of what I’ll do in the future and to surrender to it … I understand it’s something that comes and goes and won’t take me to extreme places.”
T.C. (Client)
Theme E
Enjoyment of Daily Activities
The ability to find enjoyment in basic daily activities, such as family meals, sports, and art, is a fundamental aspect of clients’ quality of life. This capacity often serves as a significant indicator of improved mental well-being and success in rehabilitation plan.
“quality of life for me was something I couldn’t even imagine: sitting with family on Friday and eating … Small things like sitting with people I love, eating good food, or reading a book are thing that I can find joy with”
E.B. (Client)