Campbellton rehabilitation program champions a fresh look at mental health

Campbellton, Friday, July 12, 2024 – Vitalité Health Network has created a new rehabilitation program to help its clients live independent, healthy, active and productive lives. The program team is located in the facility at 53 Gallant Drive in Campbellton.

The program offers support and a range of enriching activities to clients of the community mental health centre and outpatient addiction services. It brings together under one roof woodworking, sewing, craft, photography and fly-tying workshops, as well as a music room, a thrift shop, a gym, a community kitchen and a community garden.

"These different sectors of activity enable clients to find a path and develop their skills through meaningful and rewarding pursuits. Our team helps each client discover their interests and needs in relation to an area of life, whether it be activities of daily living, work or social relationships. In recent years, there have been significant changes in the way we think about mental health issues and their treatment," explained Félix Bourget, nurse and Coordinator of Rehabilitation and Work Services.

Félix Bourget, nurse and Coordinator of Rehabilitation and Work Services.

The program also includes a not-for-profit social enterprise established in partnership with clients. Called Mountain of Hope, this enterprise integrates five areas of activity: gardening, thrift shop, crafts, community kitchen and sewing.

“Instead of just using the services, clients are also decision makers and stakeholders. They are responsible for running and developing them. Some act as peer helpers and support people who are going through or have gone through similar experiences," explained Mélanie Lanteigne, Manager of Outpatient Addiction Services and Community Mental Health.

Colette Levesque, a client of the program, helps run the thrift store every week. She particularly enjoys advising visitors on clothing, and handing out compliments.

"It means a lot to me; it gives me self-esteem and confidence," says Ms. Levesque. "When I come here, I don't think about my problems anymore. I feel at home; I've found a family."

Colette Levesque is a client of the rehabilitation program.

The rehabilitation program team also taps into community resources to foster recovery, independence, community integration and improved quality of life for people living with a mental health issue.