The Meaning of Recovery: The Lived Experience of Patients with Bipolar Disorder in Turkey

Issues Ment Health Nurs. 2021 Jun;42(6):573-580. doi: 10.1080/01612840.2020.1818015. Epub 2020 Sep 16.

Abstract

Recovery in mental illness refers to a process with many aspects, steps and meanings. This study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the lived experience of recovery of patients with bipolar disorder. A qualitative approach with 28 participants was performed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The experiences of the individuals regarding the recovery processes were themed with the journey metaphor: the beginning of the journey, the route of the journey, a stop in the journey, the meaning of the journey. This study suggests ways clinicians must be aware of and adopted contemporary approach which recovery is defined as a process beyond treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Bipolar Disorder* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Qualitative Research
  • Turkey