The Nature of Recovery as Lived in Everyday Life: Perspectives of individuals recovering from severe mental health problems

Abstract

The aims of this dissertation have been to explore, understand, and hopefully contribute to improving the situations of people in recovery from severe mental health problems. A central focus has been the everyday personal experience of living with mental distress, and especially the struggles and strategies associated with overcoming daily challenges. My major concern has not been a deficit-based, disease and treatment approach, but rather about how problems and consequences of being diagnosed and treated for severe mental health problems affect peoples’ lives, especially looking at what can inform and guide the whole of society towards more hopeful, positive directions. I contend and will argue that an everyday life perspective is essential in this quest.