Abstract
ABSTRACT Research has established creative arts leisure can contribute to mental illness recovery, but few studies focus on the perspectives of individuals experiencing homelessness. In this qualitative study, 14 participants were recruited from an organization serving individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. To better understand the impact of homelessness on leisure and mental illness recovery, this study explored the interrelationships of culture, healthcare systems, and environments in the context of mental illness recovery. Themes regarding how creative arts leisure supported recovery included art as: a connection to home, therapeutic, fostering spirituality, a tool for reshaping identity, and fostering hope. Environmental barriers due to homelessness and cultural racism were identified. Connection to culture also facilitated creative arts participation along with safe spaces. Findings suggest providing creative arts leisure at sites where homeless individuals visit contributes to mental illness recovery.
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