There are many people in our society who are struggling with mental health challenges. It remains unknown whether or not these situations that are often very terrifying could have been prevented.
Could we as a society be more open to finding ways to prevent such violence? Possibly.
One such place that is helping to deal with mental health issues is right here on the Sunshine Coast.
The Arrowhead Clubhouse was created some 20 years ago. It is a place where folks suffering from mental health issues can go, become members and participate in the daily operation.
Arrowhead Clubhouse is a member of Clubhouse International, a worldwide organization whose sole purpose is to support people who suffer from persistent mental health illness. Membership in this organization not only provides a link to more than 350 other Clubhouses, it gives members and supporters the connection to others who face similar challenges throughout the world.
“Each time I attend and hear the stories, the success and the challenges faced and overcome by Clubhouse members, I am renewed in my steadfast conviction that that we have found a better way,” said Joel Corcoran, executive director of Clubhouse International.
On any given day, you can walk in the door of Arrowhead and see the activity and friendship that is there. This is a place where your past is yours and who you are is only seen as who you are right now. Not yesterday not a year ago or even 10 years ago. You are welcome and you are important.
Membership is pretty simple, but does require you to contemplate why you want to be a member. Often newcomers are greeted by a member and staff and given a tour, then time is taken with that person to go over details of what it means to be an active member.
This membership provides Arrowhead with guidelines for keeping a clubhouse inclusive and welcoming, by providing a list of standards to operate by and promote with each other. The central part of being a member of this organization is to use the model of a ‘work ordered day.’ Almost everyone has or still is part the work world. Working is probably the one activity that almost all people have in common. It provides routine structure, skills and abilities to name just a few things, and of course an income.
The work ordered day is the central focus of each days activities. Units are created by the members to ensure all that needs to be done to operate the Clubhouse is taken care of. The day begins with members and staff meeting to decide the work of the day for each unit. About 35 to 40 minutes after the meeting members and staff work side-by-side running the Clubhouse.
This is a model that has evidence-based research to prove its validity to mental health professionals. It is a model that allows members to move at their own pace, to have equal say in what is done and with continued regular involvement recover and regain stability and comfort with themselves and others.
The Arrowhead Clubhouse Society operates as a non-profit. It has a board of directors made up of community members and Clubhouse members. To find out more, or work as a board member email [email protected].
