Recovery in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): a qualitative study of service users' perspectives.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Symptom improvement in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is more common than previously hypothesised. However, it remains unclear whether it reflects service users' personal goals of recovery. The present study aimed to explore what service users with BPD view as recovery.

Methods

48 service users were recruited from secondary mental health services and their views on their personal goals and the meaning of recovery were explored in in-depth semi-structured interviews. The study drew on grounded theory and thematic analysis.

Results

Service users believed that recovery involved developing self-acceptance and self-confidence, gaining control over emotions, improving relationships, employment, and making progress in symptoms like suicidality and self-harm

SUBMITTER: Katsakou C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3355153 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature