Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine in depth the senses of hope and belonging in patients with schizophrenia and factors which affect these.
Design and methods: The data were collected through the phenomenological interview method and interpreted using Strauss and Corbin's approach to qualitative data analysis.
Findings: Patients with schizophrenia reported that having hope and feeling a sense of belonging were very important to them and patients with the same diagnosis, and that being accepted by society, being employed and being productive increased their senses of both hope and belonging.
Practice implications: For the rehabilitation of patients with schizophrenia, which is a chronic disease, psychiatric nurses should carry out activities which increase their senses of hope and belonging.
Keywords: CMHC; belonging; hope; nurse; phenomenological approach; rehabilitation; schizophrenia.
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