Mental illness and recovery: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of the experiences of Black African service users in England. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tuffour, Isaac; Simpson, Alan; Reynolds, Lisa
• Is Part Of: Journal of research in nursing. Volume 24:Number 1/2(2019)
• Page Start: 104
• Page End: 118
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Black Africans -- interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) -- mental illness -- recovery -- service users; Nursing -- Research -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Research -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing Care -- Periodicals; 610.73
• DOI: 10.1177/1744987118819667
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-9871

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.