For the first time ever, results from a global survey – spanning 28 countries – reveal how many recovery colleges exist internationally, how they work and how they are supporting people with mental health issues around the world.
The results, published today (September 19, 2023) in The Lancet Psychiatry, identified 221 recovery colleges in 28 countries across five continents, providing evidence that recovery colleges are popular and widely used. The results also help researchers to understand organisational and student characteristics, fidelity, and budget.
The survey, which forms part of the RECOLLECT study, was funded by National Institute for Health and Care Research and is a collaboration between the University of Nottingham, University of Manchester, and King’s College London.
Recovery colleges were developed in England to support the recovery of individuals who have mental health symptoms or mental illness. They have now been established in many countries but there has been little international research on recovery colleges and no studies investigating their staffing, fidelity, or costs.
Recovery colleges are designed to support the recovery of people with mental health issues. They have two key features. First, they use an adult education approach to support personal growth, rather than offering clinical treatment. Secondly, they use ‘co-production’, involving people with personal experience of mental health issues alongside staff and professional experts working together to design and deliver courses.
This article presents the findings of a survey focused on recovery colleges, revealing their impactful role in supporting individuals worldwide dealing with mental health challenges. Recovery colleges, which offer educational courses and peer support, have emerged as vital resources in fostering mental health recovery and empowering individuals to take control of their lives.
The survey discussed in the article underlines the positive outcomes associated with recovery colleges, emphasizing their role in reducing stigma, enhancing well-being, and fostering a sense of belonging. The approach centers on personalized, holistic support, encouraging participants to set and achieve their goals.
The article emphasizes the significance of integrating recovery colleges into mental health systems globally, as they offer accessible and effective support that can significantly improve the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.
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