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Factors in the recovery process of persons reported with schizophrenia
Author
Wong, Melissa Hsiu Mei
Supervisor
Wong, Shyh Shin
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to provide a perspective on what recovery means to persons with schizophrenia and to identify what they consider as important and helpful in their journey of recovery, and compare it to existing literature, with specific comparisons to Andresen et al.’s (2003) stages of psychological recovery model. A convergent mixed methods research design was utilized in this study to explore the recovery process of persons diagnosed with schizophrenia in Hougang Care Centre, Singapore. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 persons in recovery from schizophrenia and they all completed the shortened version of the Stage of Recovery Instrument (STORI-30) to determine their current stage of recovery. All interviews were voice-recorded and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to identify the common themes that emerged from the participants’ responses. Results indicate that across the participants, the meanings they attribute to their recovery were varied and nine major themes were found. Despite the varied themes, seven main factors were identified using IPA to be important and helpful in their recovery process: (1) regaining identity in vocation, (2) attributes of counsellor, (3) presence of family support, (4) rebuilding identity, (5) illness management, (6) maintaining a positive mindset and (7) taking up self-responsibility. Additionally, there were similarities and corresponding themes found between the participants’ responses and Andresen et al.’s (2003) stages of recovery model; providing some preliminary evidence of the applicability and usefulness of the five-stage recovery model with persons recovering from schizophrenia in Singapore. The findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature on recovery from schizophrenia and the limitations of the study as well as the implications for the provision of mental health services are reviewed.
Date Issued
2015
Call Number
RC514 Won
Date Submitted
2015