What is empowerment?

​At a glance

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:

• being respectful and non-judgemental
• building a relationship where the person feels comfortable to discuss 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.

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

Resources

Empowering young people: A case study on Weave Youth and Community Services
This video explains empowering people to have a voice, engage in their community and build resilience.
Type: Video | Closed captions
Viewing time: 3:34
Produced by: Mental Health Commission of NSW