Finland
Organisation: City of Oulu – Sport and Recreation Services
Programme name: “Good Mind Sports”
City: Oulu
Sport / Physical activity: Various Sport Groups for Rehabilitation (Gym, Walking Football, Bowling, Archery, Floorball)
Programme information, aims and objectives: The aim of the program is to produce good spirit, retain and improve physical condition, create social interaction and occasions, block isolation and improve a mental health of the participants by means of sports.
Participants: Programme is aimed at rehabilitation supported persons and persons with mental health challenges.
City of Oulu Social and Health Services (Mental Health Services and Rehabilitation Services) can guide persons with mental health challenges to physical activity counselling and from there to “Good Mind Sports” groups. Participants are both male and females. Program is mainly funded by the City of Oulu, participants pay small formal seasonal or single payment.
Sessions: Rehabilitation supported persons usually start their “journey” in program from physical activity counselling session. Based on this discussion with physical activity professional they are guided to sport groups most suitable for them. There is available both group sessions in different size of groups (from 5 to 15 participants) and individual guidance by sport instructors. Some of the sport instructors have also care education and every session is structured and planned. Most of the session take place between 8.00 – 16.00 in weekdays and each session lasts 60-120 minutes. Program lasts usually app. 8-15 weeks (spring or autumn season). Many of the participants have participated these sport groups for several years.
Evaluation/Measurement of outcomes: The Program results and findings are evaluated in individual therapy/care consultations with the participants. These consultations are guided by psychiatric professionals and the sport instructors can also be involved in these sessions. The main objective findings by sport instructors and psychiatric professionals are that participation in sport groups play key role in rehabilitation process. Most of the participants benefit the participation in sport groups. Participation gives positive emotions about belonging, gives meaning for days and better physical condition gives power to manage everyday challenges and life crises.
Contact person: Sanna Ek-Keränen
Email: sanna.ek-keranen@ouka.fi
Website: https://www.ouka.fi/oulu/english/sports-and-exercise
