Clubhouses as Essential Communities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• DOI: 10.1007/s40737-021-00242-8
• Publication Date: 2021-10-27T04:03:02Z
• Authors: Liza Hinchey; Amber Michon; Jessica Drews; Megan Price; Janay Christian; Francesca Pernice; Ralph Aquila
• Keywords: Pandemic; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

Intentional recovery communities, such as Clubhouses, exist physical spaces for individuals living with Serious and Persistent Mental Illness. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was necessary these facilities rapidly convert virtual platforms. The aim of this study assess extent which Clubhouse communities impacted well-being their members during initial weeks pandemic-related closures. Two hundred eighty nine across 19 countries responded weekly measures engagement, contact other members, well-being. A repeated multivariate analysis covariance indicated that high levels engagement reported higher mental health ratings over time than those low engagement. These findings support model highlight efficacy Clubhouses' rapid adaptations pandemic.