Occupational Therapy & Therapeutic Gardening In Mental Health

Gardening has been used as a OT intervention for almost 100 years (Smidl, Mitchell, & Creighton, 2017).

Populations used for according to Smidl, Mitchell & Creighton (2017):

1. Consumers with mental illness and

2. Consumers with developmental disabilities

Concept of recovery:

Recovery can be though of as a long process of change where individuals regain a sense of autonomy, independence and aim to maximise life to its full potential (Smidl, Mitchell, & Creighton, 2017).

How does gardening help with recovery?

Smidl, Mitchell & Creighton (2017) demonstrates that gardening helps in keep people fit, may lead to improvement in diet and promotes community socialisation.

What do participants think according to Smidl, Mitchell, & Creighton (2017):

- Participants felt like they made a greater contribution to their local community by having responsibility and mastering tasks.

- Improvement in social skills, through promotion of group participation.

- Decrease in social isolation.

- Developing new friendships.

- Increased energy,

Overall:

By focusing on a consumers strengths, interests and values one is empowered to take on occupations of their choice and take responsibility for their actions with support from others (Smidl, Mitchell, & Creighton, 2017).

References:

Smidl, S., Mitchell, D. M., & Creighton, C. L. (2017). Outcomes of a therapeutic gardening program in a mental health recovery center. Occupational Therapy in Mental Health, 33(4), 374. doi:10.1080/0164212X.2017.1314207