simon bradstreet | srn director. our new vision our vision a scotland where mental health recovery...
TRANSCRIPT
Simon Bradstreet | SRN Director
Our new vision
Our vision
A Scotland where mental health recovery is a reality for all
SRN Strategic Plan 2012-16Our goals:• Raise awareness of recovery• Encourage empowerment• Develop the evidence base• Influence policy and practice
What is recovery
• Unique experience with common themes• Hope, belief and identity• Empowerment and control• Meaning, purpose and opportunity• Relationships
• Often a process rather than an event• Not necessarily easy but possible
Food and mental health
• Food and mood?• Five fruit and veg for
the mind?• Biochemistry –cause or
cure?
Food and recovery
“I’ve also discovered that I quite enjoy cooking so it’s not like I’m having fish and chips every night, I’m eating food prepared with basic ingredients and I’m very physically fit compared to what I used to be.”
“I try to have a good balance in all I do these days. That includes a healthy food regime. I really don't think I would be this health conscious if I hadn't encountered mental illness.”
What recovery stories tell us
• Food is important for recovery• People described
– Changing behaviours– Part of planning wellness– Negative impact of junk food– Structure and skills– Connections and community– Knock on effects
Food and recovery
“I began treating my mind and body with respect and sticking to a healthy routine. I cut out most of the junk food I had been eating for convenience and comfort and as a result I lost a bit of weight. This helped my self-esteem, made me feel more energised, and helped to lift my mood. The extra energy made it easier to exercise and I started swimming and going to exercise classes. I also began to enjoy walking my dogs... I thoroughly enjoyed the fresh air and lovely views. As a result, I managed to get into a good sleep pattern which is very important for me”
Great event but...
“Second time at this venue - same problem both times. What happened to plain cheese or ham sandwiches?”
“Could they have hot food and maybe a selection of meat stews and curry and rice..... Nice cakes and biscuits for our coffee?”
