The Benefits of Recreation for the Recovery and Social Inclusion of Individuals with Mental Illness

An Integrative Review

Bibliographic Data

ID11637194
AuthorsFenton Litwiller (0000-0002-7028-0891, Dalhousie University, corresponding author), Catherine White (0000-0002-4646-659X, Dalhousie University), Karen Gallant (0000-0002-5127-6096, Dalhousie University), Karen Anne Gallant (Dalhousie University), Robert Gilbert (0000-0003-0462-5123, Dalhousie University), Susan Hutchinson (0000-0003-1557-0877, Dalhousie University), Susan L Hutchinson (0000-0001-8107-6557, Dalhousie University), Barbara Hamilton-Hinch (0000-0002-0189-3723, Dalhousie University), Heidi Lauckner (0000-0001-8443-3548, Dalhousie University)
Year2016
Volume39
Issue1
Pages1-19
Publication date2016-05-04
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueLeisure Sciences (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0149-0400 • E-ISSN: 1521-0588
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/01490400.2015.1120168
OpenAlexW2345918290
LanguageEN
Citations received44
References cited45

Previous research has shown the physical health benefits of physical activity for individuals with mental health challenges to their recovery, including reduced symptoms, weight reduction, and improved cardiovascular health. The focus of this previous research has excluded an exploration of the benefits of all types of recreation (including physical activity, creative pursuits, and social recreation) and the possibility of these benefits supporting broader recovery goals, including social inclusion. Through an integrative review and critical appraisal of existing literature, we outline the benefits, barriers to participation, and characteristics of successful programs of a range of community-based recreation. Results included 35 papers and indicate that physical, social and creative community recreation can contribute to the recovery and social inclusion of individuals with mental health challenges. Additionally, inclusive recreation environments set the stage for cultivating friendships if staff is properly trained on supporting camaraderie among participants and facilitating communication with groups they lead

Inclusion (mineral · Mental health · Mental illness · Political science · Psychotherapist · Public relations · Recreation · Recreational therapy · Social engagement · Social science · Sociology · Applied Psychology · Health disparities and outcomes · Medicine · Physical Activity and Health · Psychology · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Social Psychology · Gerontology

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