Our Recovery College welcomes everyone interested in mental health recovery in Surrey and north east Hampshire. Our courses are designed to support people in their recovery, blending the wisdom of those who have walked a similar path and professional expertise, to enhance your well-being by expanding your knowledge and skills in a recovery-focused way.
Roughly a quarter of the population experience a mental health condition in any one year. 'Mental illness' covers a wide spectrum of conditions that affect our thoughts, feelings, behaviour, and ability to cope with the everyday demands of life. These can range from common issues like depression and anxiety to more complex conditions such as schizophrenia and personality disorders.
While sometimes it can feel like an uphill battle, recovery is absolutely possible. Despite living with a mental health condition, people can and do find ways to manage their symptoms, regain wellness, and reclaim their lives.
What do we mean by recovery?
The word 'recovery' often makes us think about symptoms and cure because if someone is diagnosed with a physical health condition, treatment usually involves curing symptoms. However, in mental health, recovery means much more.
Unlike treating physical illnesses, mental health recovery is a holistic journey. It's not about fixing you; it's about empowering you to lead your own journey towards well-being, step by step. We understand that starting this journey can feel overwhelming, which is why we're here to support you every step of the way. We aim to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and care you need to navigate your condition and lead a fulfilling life.
Beginning your recovery journey
The College uses a psychoeducational approach with courses being run by specially trained Recovery Coaches, who bring their own lived experience of mental health challenges, alongside clinicians and professionals. Attendance at the Recovery College is not added to clinical records and all courses are free to attend.
Our courses cover a wide range of topics including:
- Skills and Wellbeing
- Understanding Conditions
- Creative Recovery
- Employment
We often run courses in collaboration with other services and outside partnerships whilst still maintaining the core values of the college.
Our courses are open to anyone aged 18 and above living in Surrey and north east Hampshire. Whether you're personally dealing with mental health struggles, caring for someone who is, or you are a professional seeking knowledge, our doors are open to you.
Enrolling in our courses is easy and entirely self-referral. You can explore and sign up for all our courses here.
For any further information please call 01276 454 150, send us a text on 07920 207 046 or email us at Recovery.College@sabp.nhs.uk.