COMMUNITY GARDENING AS A PATH TO WELL-BEING

Background: Serious mental illness (SMI) negatively impacts many aspects of well-being, including social inclusion, community engagement and self-efficacy. Mental illness is associated with less participation in occupations... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Serious mental illness (SMI) negatively impacts many aspects of well-being, including social inclusion, community engagement and self-efficacy. Mental illness is associated with less participation in occupations and also limited access to fresh food. Community gardening positively impacts these issues; however little evidence exists that examines the question: How does participation in community gardening influence the well-being of people living with SMI?
Method:
Community-based participatory research principles guide this 3-year mixed methods study. Researchers recruited 15 adults with SMI living in supported housing and/or attending a mental health resource centre. Participants attended a weekly gardening program facilitated by a horticultural therapist. Data collection involved interviews, focus groups, and participant observation. Inductive data analysis continues and findings are presented as themes.
Results:
Preliminary themes are: 1) Community gardening offers positive qualities for occupational engagement, 2) Community gardening fosters social interaction and connections, 3) Cultivating skills and confidence enhances learning that supports doing.
Conclusion: Community gardening is a complex occupation that welcomes diverse participants and accommodates a range of abilities, interests and needs. Participation in community gardening offers opportunities to learn, share skills and knowledge, and creates a place where people belong.
Application to Practice:
Occupational therapists can use this popular, low-cost occupation as a means to achieve client goals that support well-being. As a non-stigmatizing leisure occupation, clients can participate in it for the enjoyment and satisfaction the process elicits. Leisure is understood as time, activity, subjective experience and context; these elements highlight opportunities for occupational adaptation and client education.