Recovery College VCH

CHIME Framework

At Recovery College VCH we work within a framework called CHIME.  This framework the principles of recovery to the learning environment, and the effectiveness of what we do can be measured.  Participants  can be assured that what we do is evidence and practice based.

There are five things we believe that all people need in their lives, no matter who they are, how old they are or where they’re from.  We call them the CHIME factors:

Connectedness – belonging

Hope and Optimism

Identity – sense of self and overcoming stigma

Meaning – in MH experience, Life and social roles and social goals. purpose.

Empowerment   –  including personal responsibility, control over one’s life and from a strength-based lens

Connectedness

Participants are encouraged to participate fully in the programming they have signed up for.  We have a variety of topics that explore ways of connecting and communicating.

In our peer support and social support groups participants have the chance to share their stories to receive and give support as well as celebrate successes and strengths. Other activities offer the opportunity to learn with and from others.

Hope (and Optimism)

We believe that recovery is possible, and by recovery we mean a process of change where individuals improve their health and wellness, and live a fulfilling and self directed life.

Recovery College VCH workshops and support groups are facilitated by peers, individuals who have their own lived and living experience of mental health issues and or substance use.  The facilitators draw upon their lived experiences to to provide relative examples on the topics being discussed, and model hope as proof that a person can live well with these health concerns. Participants are provided with the opportunity to explore topics in a setting that is welcoming and led by individuals who “get it”.

Identity

In a recovery journey overcoming stigma and rebuilding positive sense of identity are key to living life as fully as possible.  Our workshops and support groups are shaped by people with lived experience, though the co-production process and actively seeking out the feedback from our participants. At Recovery College VCH we work very hard to combat structural stigma, which is defined as societal-level conditions, cultural norms, and institutional policies that constrain the opportunities, resources, and wellbeing of the persons experiencing stigma.

Meaning

Recovery College VCH participants are invited to engage in meaningful activities to enhance positive health, quality of life, and sense of well-being in many different areas. These can include social, spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental wellness.

Empowerment

Recovery College VCH programming is strengths based, building upon the “knowledge in the room” and focusing on potential not shortcomings. Participants gain knowledge and practical skills which can lead to enhancing one’s life and managing mental health and/or substance use challenges personally or in the workplace. Our programming is open to all and participants determine how involved they’d like to be.