Facilitating Personal Recovery in Individuals With Mental Illness: A Longitudinal Qualitative Interview Study of a...

This study explored how participation in a person-centred group intervention influenced the personal recovery process of individuals with mental illness at the end of the intervention and 3 months after. Using a qualitative longitudinal design, the study was conducted in an outpatient clinic at the Psychiatric Department of the North Denmark Region. Seventeen participants completed the 12-week intervention, which included two Discovery group sessions and 10 Guided Self-Determination method sessions. Participants were interviewed post-intervention and at three-month follow-up. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke and the CHIME framework with a deductive approach. The intervention positively influenced participants' personal recovery process across all CHIME categories. Being among peers fostered a sense of belonging, trust and mutual understanding leading to greater openness and confidence in relationships within and beyond mental health services. Participation in the intervention enhanced self-understanding, hope and optimism about the future, though some participants emphasized the need for ongoing support to sustain these gains. Engagement in the group promoted self-acceptance and openness about mental illness, increased awareness of factors affecting well-being and encouraged focus on opportunities and quality of life. Participants also reported greater self-reflection, self-esteem and responsibility, leading to a stronger sense of control over their lives. Overall, the person-centred group intervention supported participants' personal recovery process by strengthening connectedness, hope, identity, meaning and empowerment. Continued professional support was viewed as essential to sustain and integrate these positive changes.