@article { , title = {Post-traumatic growth in mental health recovery: qualitative study of narratives}, abstract = {Objectives Post-traumatic growth, defined as positive psychological change experienced as a result of the struggle with challenging life circumstances, is under-researched in people with mental health problems. The aim of this study was to develop a conceptual framework for post-traumatic growth in the context of recovery for people with psychosis and other severe mental health problems. Design Qualitative thematic analysis of cross-sectional semi-structured interviews about personal experiences of mental health recovery. Setting England. Participants Participants were adults aged over 18 and: (i) living with psychosis and not using mental health services (n=21); (ii) using mental health services and from black and minority ethnic communities (n=21); (iii) underserved, operationalised as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community or complex needs or rural community (n=19); or (iv) employed in peer roles using their lived experience with others (n=16). The 77 participants comprised 42 (55\%) female and 44 (57\%) White British. Results Components of post-traumatic growth were present in 64 (83\%) of recovery narratives. Six superordinate categories were identified, consistent with a view that post-traumatic growth involves learning about oneself (Self-discovery) leading to a new sense of who one is (Sense of self) and appreciation of life (Life perspective). Observable positively-valued changes comprise a greater focus on self-management (Wellbeing) and more importance being attached to relationships (Relationships) and spiritual or religious engagement (Spirituality). Categories are non-ordered and individuals may start from any point in this process. Conclusions Post-traumatic growth is often part of mental health recovery. Changes are compatible with research about growth following trauma, but with more emphasis on self-discovery, integration of illness-related experiences and active self-management of wellbeing. Trauma-related growth may be a preferable term for participants who identify as having experienced trauma. Trauma-informed mental health care could use the six identified categories as a basis for new approaches to supporting recovery.}, doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029342}, eissn = {2044-6055}, issue = {6}, journal = {BMJ Open}, publicationstatus = {Published}, publisher = {BMJ Publishing Group}, url = {https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/2134409}, volume = {9}, keyword = {Post-traumatic growth, Mental health, Recovery}, year = {2019}, author = {Slade, Mike and Rennick-Egglestone, Stefan and Blackie, Laura E.R. and Llewellyn-Beardsley, Joy and Franklin, Donna and Hui, Ada and Thornicroft, Graham and McGranahan, Rose and Pollock, Kristian and Priebe, Stefan and Ramsay, Amy and Roe, David and Deakin, Emilia} }