Feasibility, Acceptability, and Impact of Recovery-Oriented Practices in an Italian Community Mental Health Service: A Pilot Study

Background: Over the past decade, Italy has made progress in adopting recovery-oriented approaches in mental health care, though full alignment with international guidelines remains incomplete. This study investigates the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of integrating recovery-oriented practices in an Italian Community Mental Health Service (CMHS), focusing on both user and professional perspectives to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Methods: A longitudinal pilot study was conducted at the South Verona CMHS. Data on users' socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, symptoms, functioning, needs, and autonomy were collected at baseline and six-month follow-up. Participants included individuals in supported accommodation and outpatient care. The Mental Health Recovery Star (MHRS) assessed recovery progress. Qualitative data from focus groups and interviews captured users' and professionals' experiences. Results: Nineteen professionals completed the MHRS with 25 users, who demonstrated significant improvements in MHRS scores (p = 0.003), romantic relationships (p < 0.001), employment (p < 0.001), functioning (p = 0.015), psychopathology (p = 0.001), functional autonomy (p = 0.003), and unmet needs (p = 0.026). Qualitative findings emphasized the value of a personalized, holistic approach but noted gaps in follow-up and shared decision-making. Focus groups (30 participants) highlighted recovery as a process of hope, meaning, and empowerment. Participants called for ongoing education, structural changes, and peer-support initiatives. Professionals reported increased motivation. Conclusions: Integrating recovery-oriented practices within the South Verona CMHS was both feasible and acceptable. The MHRS positively impacted service users' personal recovery and professionals' motivation. The study underscores the need for continued training, structural reforms, and peer-support initiatives to foster lasting changes and enhance CMHS practices.