| dc.description.abstract | There are several arenas within psychological health care that offer creative activities, e.g. public activity centres and user managed centres. Here the users can take part in different activities, such as painting, ceramic and glass art, and silvercraft.
The purpose of this study was to increase the understanding of the importance of creative activities for users of public activity centres.
The study uses a phenomenological hermeneutic approach. It is based on qualitative research interviews with 8 users of public activity centres. Data analysis was done using systematic text condensation as a method. The material is analysed in the context of theories of recovery processes and flow.
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Findings of the study point in the direction that public activity centres as a meeting place are of greater importance for users than the creative activity itself. The centres are arenas were valuable relations are established, which often last for years. However, evidence suggests that creative activities can be an important factor in the process of establishing these relations.
Other findings indicate that creative activities can create positive experiences leading to well-being, relaxation and better coping skills. The activities can also contribute to better economy for the users, as they can make extra money by selling products.
There is reason to believe that the findings, to a varying degree, can play an important role in promoting recovery. Many of the informants also thought that their psychological health had improved after they started to attend the activity centres.
Key words: Art, therapy, activity centre, mental health, psychological health care, flow | nb_NO |
