Guidelines for Recovery-Oriented Practice

Hope. Dignity. Inclusion. The Guidelines for Recovery-Oriented Practice is the first comprehensive Canadian reference document for understanding recovery in practice and promoting a consistent application of recovery principles across the country at a policy, program and practice level. The release of the Guidelines is another significant milestone in taking action on Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada.  

Recovery means living a satisfying, hopeful, and meaningful life, even when there may be ongoing limitations related to mental health problems and illnesses. It starts with the fundamental belief that not only is recovery possible, it should be expected regardless of diagnosis or situation.

While the Guidelines are directed at a wide audience that includes people living with mental health problems and illnesses and their families, they are designed especially for practitioners, managers, administrators, and policy- and decision-makers who can help make the practical, organizational and cultural shifts needed to develop a truly recovery-oriented mental health system.    

The Guidelines for Recovery-Oriented Practice were developed after extensive consultation and draw on the many existing pockets of excellence across the country. They provide guidance on tailoring recovery-oriented approaches to respond to the diverse needs of people living with mental health problems or illnesses, whatever their condition, background, circumstance or stage of life.

Working together, recovery is possible.