Too many services concentrate on finding out what is wrong and putting it right. We concentrate on finding out what is right and helping people use that strength to help manage what is wrong.
The things that work for people are often the things that they have a passion for or interest in. They can also be aspects of their personality that make them who they are, for example, their sense of humour, ability to empathise or competitive streak.
People can use all of these things to help resolve or manage the things that are difficult in their lives. So, a love of a sport and a competitive streak might be the thing that helps someone to focus on getting well and leaving hospital as soon as possible.
We also find strength in our differences as well as what we have in common. Our diversity is part of who we are.
Recovery is about managing what is wrong – whatever that means for the individual. Recovery can be a process of trial and error and we encourage people to try new ways of managing what is wrong with support along the way.
It’s important that people don’t have to manage on their own, rather that they include their family, their friends and their community to develop and sustain hope, and to build the life that they want. We help people to build the community that can support them in the future.