The need for a model that can portray dynamic processes of change in mutual help groups for mental health (MHGMHs) is emphasized. A dynamic process model has the potential to capture a more comprehensive understanding of how MHGMHs may assist their members. An investigation into GROW, a mutual help organization for mental health, employed ethnographic, phenomenological and collaborative research methods. The study examined how GROW impacts on psychological well being. Study outcomes aligned with the social ecological paradigm (Maton in Understanding the self-help organization: frameworks and findings. Sage, Thousand Oaks 1994) indicating multifactorial processes of change at and across three levels of analysis: group level, GROW program/community level and individual level. Outcome themes related to life skills acquisition and a change in self-perception in terms of belonging within community and an increased sense of personal value. The GROW findings are used to assist development of a dynamic multi-dimensional process model to explain how MHGMHs may promote positive change.

Objective: This study investigated the impact of GROW, an Australia-wide community mental health organisation, on psychological wellbeing and mental health.Design: Triangulation of quantitative and qualitative research methods was employed. The study included a cross-sectional and a longitudinal survey of GROW members together with ethnographic and phenomenological work. Research outcomes:The results pointed to length of membership/extent of involvement in GROW activities as being associated with improved wellbeing in the areas of autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, and selfacceptance/purpose in life, together with a reduction in medication and hospitalisation. In a longitudinal study surveying the wellbeing of 28 new GROW members with 6-month follow-up, there were statistically significant improvements on all wellbeing factors. A major theme emerging from ethnographic and phenomenological research was that GROW offers a "real life" mini-community where people learn social and life management skills. However, beyond skills acquisition, GROW offers the potential for identity transformation by assisting the realisation of core human needs -a

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