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Background Social network processes impact on the genesis and management of mental health problems. There is currently less understanding of the way people negotiate networked relationships in times of crisis compared to how they manage at other times. Objective This paper explores the patterns and nature of personal network involvement at times of crises and how these may differ from day-to-day networks of recovery and maintenance. Method Semi-structured interviews with 25 participants with a diagnosis of long-term mental health ( MH) problems drawn from recovery settings in the south of England. Interviews centred on personal network mapping of members and resources providing support. The mapping interviews explored the work of network members and changes in times of crisis. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using a framework analysis. Results Three key themes were identified: the fluidity of network relationality between crisis and recovery; isolation as a means of crises management; leaning towards peer support. Personal network input retreated at times of crisis often as result of 'ejection' from the network by participants who used self-isolation as a personal management strategy in an attempt to deal with crises. Peer support is considered useful during a crisis, whilst the role of services was viewed with some ambiguity. Conclusions Social networks membership, and type and depth of involvement, is subject to change between times of crisis and everyday support. This has implications for managing mental health in terms of engaging with network support differently in times of crises versus recovery and everyday living. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lifemusic project ran from 2008–2011 as part of a UK government funded programme demonstrating the potential benefits to community well-being from knowledge exchange between universities and their local communities. The Lifemusic method, which grew out of 20 years of development and community practice, uses music improvisation as a primary resource for group health and well-being. It presented a training programme and over 400 workshops with a variety of client groups including mental health. This paper introduces and outlines the Lifemusic method, placing it within a tradition of humanistic approaches to community health and goes on to describe its impact in a mental health facility where the approach was introduced and sustained. It looks at the practical aspects of setting up the programme, the challenges of client participation and sustainability and outlines the positive outcomes and benefits to patients and the methodology used in measuring well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]