Recovery-oriented services

Abstract

The notion of recovery has a long history in mental health services, traditionally understood as synonymous with a "return to normal." However, in the past few decades a new understanding has emerged, which challenges the view that recovery involves a return to symptom free "normality." People personally affected by mental illness have become increasingly vocal in communicating what helps in moving beyond the role of "patient." The most widely cited definition is that recovery is "a deeply personal, unique process of changing one's attitudes, values, feelings, goals, skills, and/ or roles" and "a way of living a satisfying, hopeful, and contributing life even within the limitations caused by illness." The policy context has also altered, with a "recovery orientation" central to national mental health policy in almost all high- income countries and also transnationally. The economic case for a recovery orientation is increasingly compelling. Finally, associated clinical developments have gained traction in mental health systems, e.g., new employment roles, structures, interventions and working practices. This chapter outlines some of the research underpinning these developments, and their implications for services working with people living with psychosis. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)