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A new philanthropic contribution is making it possible to introduce an innovative approach to supporting adults receiving psychiatric care at Notre-Dame Hospital.
Mental health recovery extends beyond diagnosis and treatment. It is also built through everyday experiences, meaningful relationships, and activities that restore confidence and help people regain an active role in their lives.
This vision is being brought to life through a new program of therapeutic and recreational activities available to adults receiving psychiatric care at Notre-Dame Hospital throughout their care journey—during hospitalization, in outpatient clinics, at home and in local community health centres (CLSCs).
This initiative is a first for Santé Québec Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal – Universitaire. It is made possible by the expertise of the Psychiatry Department at Notre-Dame Hospital and its commitment to developing innovative approaches that better meet the needs of the communities it serves.
When Everyday Activities Become Therapeutic
This initiative is designed to promote well-being and support the recovery journey of people living with mental illness by drawing on the principles of psychosocial rehabilitation. Every activity is intentionally designed to achieve specific therapeutic goals.
Sports and outdoor activities encourage physical activity, which is recognized for its positive effects on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Creative activities provide opportunities for self-expression, help build self-esteem and foster the satisfaction that comes from making something with one’s own hands. Animal-assisted therapy, music therapy and group activities, meanwhile, encourage social connection and help reduce isolation.
“In psychiatry, we work with people who face profound challenges every day. Developed collaboratively by our teams, this new program was born from the realities we witness firsthand. It will create opportunities to pause, create, move, and feel valued and connected. These moments may be quiet or joyful, but they are always deeply healing.”
The project also includes the creation of a dedicated therapeutic creative space within the Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic at Notre-Dame Hospital, along with the acquisition of the equipment and materials needed to bring this vision to life and support the work of care teams. This lasting investment will benefit hundreds of people every year.
A Major Gift That Will Change Lives
The launch of this innovative program has been made possible through a major gift from the Leclerc-Racine Foundation.
Through its generous support, the Foundation is helping integrate evidence-informed complementary approaches into the mental health recovery journey. Its investment will create meaningful opportunities to positively influence the lives of hundreds of people.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Leclerc-Racine Foundation for its trust and generosity. Its support is providing the momentum needed to bring this transformative initiative to life, helping improve the experience of people living with mental illness across Centre-Sud.