Person Centred, Holistic Care Model

We need a different recovery-based model which still incorporates some of the important aspects of the medical model but leaves behind the pathologized, punitive elements of societally sanctioned incarceration of people having a mental health experience. Below is my take on this; it focuses on holistic and person-centered care.

Integrated Assessment & Diagnosis

Utilize comprehensive assessment tools early on, incorporating both clinical evaluations and personal narratives to create a full picture of the person's mental health experience. It's important to recognize diagnosis as a step to understand needs, not just labeling. This incorporates immediately introducing recovery principles including empowerment and hope.

Medication as a Supportive Tool

Using medication strategically as part of a broader toolkit, aimed at stabilizing symptoms while prioritizing people's overall well-being. Encouraging regular review and collaboration with people to personalize and adjust treatment plans when needed.

Person-Centered Empowerment

Place people at the core of the process of recovery, acknowledging their unique experiences and insight as central to their recovery. Encourage active participation in setting goals and making decisions about their care, fostering a sense of ownership and agency.

Holistic Support Systems

Surround the individual with a spectrum of support, including medical professionals, peer support networks, community resources, and therapeutic modalities like art, mindfulness, or physical activities. Integrate cultural, spiritual, and personal belief systems to align healing practices with the person's values and worldview.

Strengths-Based Approach

Focus on identifying and building upon a person's strengths and capabilities, recognizing resilience and potential rather than solely addressing deficits. Develop personalized care plans that enhance these strengths through tailored interventions.

Continuous Feedback Loops

Implement regular check-ins and evaluations with people to ensure that care remains adaptive and responsive to their evolving needs and circumstances. Incorporate feedback to refine and improve treatment plans, promoting collaboration and trust.

Community and Peer Involvement

Facilitate access to peer support and community engagement, encouraging shared experiences and collective learning. Highlight the value of lived experience, whether through peer mentors or participatory methods, to inspire hope and shared wisdom.

Innovation and Flexibility

Ensure practices remain open to innovation, encouraging exploration of new technologies, methodologies, and insights from diverse fields. Maintain flexibility to adapt approaches in response to individual progress and emerging evidence.

This can all be encompassed in a shroud of radical transparency, prioritizing open, honest dialogue between individuals and professionals, involving them in every step of their recovery and care. This includes sharing information and involving individuals in decision-making, fostering trust and empowerment.