Hearing their voices: The lived experience of recovery from first-episode psychosis in schizophrenia in South Africa

Abstract

Background:

Recovery was previously regarded as a somewhat unattainable goal, and the subjective experience was de-emphasised. Lately, the person and his or her experiences are emphasised.

Material:

Seven participants were interviewed regarding their experience of recovery from first-episode psychosis in schizophrenia. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Discussion:

Support and having to care for another are possibly the greatest contributors to their recovery. Spirituality plays an important role. Stigma, found to be ingrained and pervasive, could be a barrier to recovery. The rediscovery by the participants of their abilities (re)introduced a sense of agency.

Conclusion:

The narrative in the process of recovery is crucial.

Keywords

Schizophrenia recovery lived experience first-episode psychosis interpretative phenomenological analysis South Africa

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