Mental illness and recovery: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of the experiences of Black African service users in England

Abstract

Background

Research conceptualising recovery is predominantly Eurocentric. This paper develops the conceptualisation of recovery by Black African service users.

Aims

Our aim was to explore Black African service users’ experiences of recovery from mental illness and to understand how they conceptualise recovery.

Methods

Using a qualitative research approach and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 Black African service users recovering from mental illness in England.

Results

Participants conceptualised recovery as a pragmatic and subjective concept distributed across a continuum of clinical, functional and spiritual dimensions, resilience, identity and their social and cultural backgrounds.

Conclusions

It seems critical for all stakeholders to ensure that these components are embedded in recovery-oriented services for Black African service users.

Keywords

Black Africans interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA)mental illness recovery service users

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