Gröna miljöer som rehabilitering för psykisk ohälsa : en kvalitativ studie om hur gröna miljöer kan bidra till en större känsla av sammanhang för individer med psykisk ohälsa

In Sweden the most common reason for sick leave is stress and fatigue. Due to mental illness the number of sick leaves increase. The aim of this qualitative study was to gain an understanding of how horticultural therapy/naturalized rehabilitation as a rehabilitation method can achieve a broader sense of coherence for individuals who suffer from mental illness. In the data collection, semi-structured interviews were used to get narrative descriptions of perceptions about horticultural therapy/naturalized rehabilitation abilities to assist clients in their recovery. The respondents consisted of six professionals split into three different businesses in the field of horticultural therapy/naturalized rehabilitation. The findings revealed that the form of the rehabilitation with small groups of individuals can contribute to social interaction and fellowship. Furthermore, the rehabilitation can make the clients feel as a part of a broader context, gain new approaches and become calm and relaxed by following the process of nature. Garden activities can contribute to a sense of self-care. Also, the amount of time the clients undergo rehabilitation is perceived as important for their recovery process. Horticulture therapy/naturalized rehabilitation can be a complement to other therapies. In conclusion, these factors can be seen as resources for the clients that can contribute to a sense of coherence which includes stronger feelings of meaningfulness, comprehensibility and manageability