Wellness Recovery Action Plan

Wellness Recovery Action Plan

The Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) is a self-designed prevention and wellness process that anyone can use to get well, stay well, and make their life the way they want it to be. It was developed in 1997 by a group of people who were searching for ways to overcome their own mental health challenges and maintain their wellness.

History

The concept of the Wellness Recovery Action Plan was developed by Mary Ellen Copeland and a group of people who had been dealing with mental health issues. They wanted to create a system that would help them manage their own wellness and recovery. The first WRAP was created in Vermont, USA, and has since been adopted by individuals and organizations worldwide.

Components of WRAP

WRAP is structured around several key components that help individuals create a personalized plan for wellness and recovery. These components include:

Wellness Toolbox

The Wellness Toolbox is a collection of resources and strategies that individuals can use to maintain their wellness. It includes activities, skills, and supports that have been effective in the past.

Daily Maintenance Plan

This component involves creating a plan for daily activities that help maintain wellness. It includes identifying what the person is like when they are well, and listing things they need to do every day to stay well.

Triggers

Triggers are external events or circumstances that may cause discomfort or distress. In WRAP, individuals identify their triggers and develop action plans to respond to them effectively.

Early Warning Signs

Early warning signs are subtle signs that indicate a possible decline in wellness. Recognizing these signs early allows individuals to take action before things worsen.

When Things Are Breaking Down

This component involves creating a plan for when things are getting worse, despite efforts to maintain wellness. It includes identifying signs that indicate a crisis is developing and planning actions to take.

Crisis Plan

The Crisis Plan, also known as an Advance Directive, is a detailed plan for how the individual wants to be treated during a crisis. It includes information on who should be contacted, what treatments are preferred, and how to ensure safety.

Post-Crisis Plan

After a crisis, individuals use the Post-Crisis Plan to guide their recovery and return to wellness. It includes steps to take to regain stability and prevent future crises.

Implementation and Use

WRAP is used by individuals, mental health professionals, and peer support groups. It is a flexible and adaptable tool that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each person. WRAP is often used in conjunction with other mental health treatments and supports.

Benefits of WRAP

WRAP has been shown to help individuals:

• Increase personal empowerment
• Improve quality of life
• Achieve their life goals and dreams
• Reduce or eliminate troubling symptoms

See Also

• Mental health recovery
• Peer support
• Self-help