SOCIAL RECREATION
A significant amount of data exists describing the correlation between mental health and socialization including fitness, work and healthy lifestyle. A Japanese study done in 2011 found a definite connection between the extent of face-to-face contact time and quantified mental health. The results suggest that people who experience large amounts of social interaction tend to have less stress, thereby improving their mood and overall mental health.
To that end, we recognize that a work-life balance is a vital component to everyone’s health and well-being. As part of our holistic approach to support people living with mental illness, we offer a variety of social recreation programs.
The primary purposes of these programs encourage participation and include:
- Interaction, engagement and activity on a consistent basis
- Supports and strategies for managing mental illness
- Physical activity to help combat obesity, diabetes, mental illness
- Encouragement to adopt a healthy lifestyle as an element to wellness
Club T.R.U.E. (Together - Recreation, Understanding & Enjoyment)
With the support of United Way Haldimand-Norfolk, True Experience repurposed space within its building to establish a “clubhouse”. The activities that take place in the “clubhouse” are designed to stimulate physical activity, social interaction and a sense of community and belonging. There are scheduled activities such as pool, darts, and euchre. These indoor activities provide a routine and stimulation particularly during the winter months…and more importantly – something to look forward to!
True Experience is fortunate to have a large outdoor space to accommodate badminton, horseshoes, and volleyball when the weather cooperates!
People living in a rural community can experience the added stressor of lack of transportation. Without a consistent transit system or access to a car, people can become isolated. With isolation comes loneliness that can lead to a feeling of despair. Couple isolation due to transportation, with financial limitations, this closes the door for many to enjoy activities in nearby urban centres. The support from United Way removes both of these critical barriers and provides opportunities for True Experience clients to visit places such as Ripley’s Aquarium, take in a Toronto Blue Jays game, watch a live musical production or enjoy a hike in a conservation area.
Inside or outside, physical activities are good for the heart and soul and contribute to a balanced lifestyle.
The newest element of Club T.R.U.E. is the “Quiet Room”. This is a space that replicates a living room where people can gather for conversation, relaxation or read a book. Ironically, the “Quiet Room” is anything but quiet on most Friday afternoons! We are fortunate to have a local musician and recording artist lead jam sessions in the “Quiet Room”. Vocals, guitars and percussion make up the wonderful sounds that can be heard coming from the sessions.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY...
“I now enjoy socializing even though I’m not really a people person.”
- Anonymous
“Helps me with hand eye coordination.” - Anonymous
“I feel good after the walk”. - Anonymous
“It helps me with my energy level the rest of the day.” - Anonymous
“Best for me…once again I’m trying to improve my health by losing weight.” - Anonymous
“I look forward to playing pool.” - Anonymous |
APPLICATIONS
