WELLNESS RECOVERY ACTION PLAN: (WRAP). THE EXPERIENCES OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS IN IRELAND

Background: The strategy document in Irish Mental Health Services, asserts that interventions should maximise recovery from mental illness (A Vision for Change, 2008). The Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) is a... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
The strategy document in Irish Mental Health Services, asserts that interventions should maximise recovery from mental illness (A Vision for Change, 2008). The Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) is a self-management tool, guided by the principles of Recovery. (Copeland, 1997)

Method:
This research reviewed the experience of Occupational Therapists using the WRAP as an intervention. Data was analysed thematically. Semi-Structured Interviews were conducted, audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Participants reviewed their own transcripts to add any further comment.

Results:
Four key themes emerged from the data
• Occupational Therapist Knowledge
• Multidisciplinary Team Role
• Efficacy of WRAP as a self-management tool
• Approaches when facilitating a WRAP group

Conclusion:
A Wellness Recovery Action Plan is a valid intervention tool. Each service user must be supported in recognising that they are the expert in their Recovery journey. This topic requires further exploration including service user data on their experiences of WRAP.

Application to Practice:
The philosophy underpinning occupational therapy fits well with the concepts of WRAP and the Recovery Model (Hurley & McKay, 2009). Occupational Therapists are in an ideal position to lead multidisciplinary teams in embracing WRAP as a team intervention tool.

References
Copeland, M.E. (1997) Wellness Recovery Action Plan. Dummerston: Peach Press.
Hurley, E. & McKay, E.A. (2009) “The recognition and adoption of the recovery approach by occupational therapists in acute psychiatric settings in Ireland”, Irish Journal of Occupational Therapy, 37(2), pp. 5-13
Ireland. Department of Health and Children. (2008) A Vision for Change, Dublin: Stationery Office