RESEARCH
Gardening as Occupational Therapy Model
Summary
This paper discusses a gardening project implemented in migrant reception centers in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a form of occupational therapy and mental health support. The project involved setting up greenhouses and pot cultivation, allowing migrants to engage in planting, maintaining, and harvesting vegetables and herbs. The activities provided numerous benefits, including stress reduction, skill development, social interaction, and a sense of purpose for the participants. Despite challenges such as limited space, rapid turnover of migrants, and cultural considerations, the project proved successful in improving the well-being of those involved.
The paper outlines the process of implementing the gardening project, from obtaining approvals and preparing the land to harvesting produce. It also highlights the positive impact on participants, who reported feeling calmer, more useful, and better prepared for future endeavors. The authors provide recommendations for similar projects, emphasizing the importance of adapting to local conditions, providing training, and considering long-term sustainability. Overall, the gardening approach is presented as a valuable and replicable model for supporting migrants’ mental health and integration in reception centers.
