What is Recovery?

In a mental health setting, Recovery is becoming a well used term and it can mean very different things to different people.

Recovery could be viewed as a person reclaiming their fullness of life, rather than merely existing under the shadow of an illness or condition - growing, learning and developing their potential, even if the symptoms or challenges are present. 

There is no single agreed upon definition of recovery. However, the main message is that of hope and living a meaningful and satisfying life as defined by each person.

Recovery emphasizes that while individuals may not be able to have full control over their symptoms, they can have full control over their lives.

Recovery is unique and is very personal; it’s about having a good life with or without symptoms.  It focuses on what you can do and not on what you can’t and is described as a journey, with it’s inevitable ups and downs, people often describe themselves as being in recovery rather than recovered.  It’s not always easy but with the right kind of support recovery is real.

Recovery begins when you find someone or something to relate to and evidence suggests that recovery is supported by

            C – Connecting with others and having good relationships

            H – Hope and optimism

            I – Identity, having a positive sense of self

            M – Meaning, finding your own meaning and purpose in life

            E – Empowerment, focusing on strengths and having

                  control over your life.          (CHIME – Mike Slade)