Art-making in mental health - a Fijian pilot study.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: A pilot art-making and mental health recovery project addressed consumer and carer mental health and well-being in Suva, Fiji. METHOD: Using feedback surveys, the project evaluated initial training, and a 12-month art programme for consumers, carers and staff across several mental health services. RESULTS: First person and stakeholder group reports from the project reflected broad-scale approval for the novel modality and its potential for continued application in keeping with local cultural values. A broad stakeholder base was involved in planning and participation, aligned with the values of inclusive recovery-oriented mental health service approaches. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the programme can add value to mental health care being provided for people with a mental illness in Fiji.