Recovery Education Programme
At Shine, we believe that recovery from mental illness is not only possible, it’s personal. Our Recovery Education programmes are co-produced and often co-delivered with people who have lived experience of mental illness or of supporting a loved one. We create safe, inclusive learning environments that empower individuals and families to understand mental health, build recovery skills, and reconnect with hope, meaning and community.
What is Recovery Education?
Recovery education offers practical tools, shared learning, and peer connection to support people as they navigate their recovery journey. Our courses are based on evidence-informed practice and underpinned by recovery values such as choice, empowerment, inclusion, and lived experience. Whether you're living with mental illness, supporting someone who is, or simply want to grow your understanding, Shine’s Recovery Training offers a space to explore, reflect and grow.
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Our Courses
We offer a variety of courses designed to support both individuals with lived experience and family members/supporters. These are dependent on demand and identified local needs. Our offerings include:
Taking Control
A short course designed to help people explore practical ways to face life’s challenges while maintaining physical and mental wellbeing.
Finding My Way
An multi session course co-developed with people with self-experience of mental illness, offering experiential learning, peer support and self-advocacy.
Exploring My Way
A 10-session course tailored for family members and supporters to strengthen understanding of mental illness, develop communication skills, and explore self-care.
Back on Track
A discussion-based “top-up” course that helps participants build on previous learning, put recovery strategies into practice, and regain confidence in daily life.
Relaxation Techniques
This course introduces accessible techniques for reducing stress and improving wellbeing.
How We Deliver Training
In-person and online options to suit different needs and locations
Facilitated by experienced staff and peer trainers with lived experience
Group sizes that promote safety, connection, and participation
Delivered in partnership with Recovery Colleges, Adult Education Networks, and other community-based settings
The Power of Peer Support
Many of our education programmes are complemented by Shine’s peer support groups, which offer ongoing connection, shared experience and a recovery-focused community. We also offer family peer support groups and social groups in some regions. These groups help reduce isolation, promote resilience and reinforce the learning from our training courses.
Why It Matters
Recovery education helps people:
- Understand and manage their mental health
- Develop confidence and skills
- Reduce isolation and stigma
- Set goals and take meaningful steps forward
- Reclaim identity, voice and autonomy
As one participant shared:
“The course helped me realise I had put everyone else first. I learned it’s not just okay to care for myself—it’s essential. I left feeling lighter, and I live with more freedom and less guilt now.”
How to Get Involved
Courses are dependant on demand and funding. To find out more or to register an interest for a course near you, contact our Information and Support service:
Call: 01 860 1610
Email: info@shine.ie