What is empowerment?

​At a glance

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Empowerment is “the level of choice, influence, and control that users of mental health services can exercise over events in their lives.” (World Health Organisations)

Empowerment can be developed by:

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• being respectful and non-judgemental

• building a relationship where the person feels comfortable discussing their feelings and what they want

• focussing on strengths and abilities

• supporting and encouraging involvement in decision making

• respecting the decisions a person makes about their own life.

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Empowerment is a key part of recovery, person-centered and holistic approaches.