Identity and self-concept in mental health recovery Version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Self-identity in mental health recovery: using Photovoice to explore changing identities of people with long-term mental health challenges within NHS treatment settings and community participatory-arts settings.
IRAS ID
335901
Contact name
Melanie Dupin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Essex
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 18 days
Research summary
Existing research literature on mental health stigma and recovery tells us that self-stigma of struggling with one's mental health can impede help-seeking and recovery outcomes. However, we know less about self-stigma and 'illness identity' in individuals who do indeed seek help and engage with traditional mental health services, particularly where contact is long-term (i.e. secondary care) or where there are repeated referrals to mental health services over their lifetime.
Existing research tells us that community-based participatory arts for those with mental health challenges can have a positive impact upon identity, self-worth and making meaning from experiences. Such approaches may appeal more to individuals who do not wish to pursue traditional mental health services. However, less is known about how individuals who access both clinical mental health services and non-traditional approaches for mental health see themselves and think about recovery in each of these spaces.
To promote recovery from ongoing mental illness, it is important for us to understand the perspectives of those individuals coping with these challenges. This study aims to explore the identity-related themes using self-narrative (Photovoice) methodology in individuals with long-term mental health difficulties. Specifically, this research aims to explore possible changes in self-identity and thoughts about recovery within NHS mental health treatment settings and in community participatory-arts settings.
It will also ask participants to identify their ideas of optimal care from services. It is hoped that findings will add richness to our understanding of how identity changes can influence recovery and what facilitates this within different service settings.
REC name
East Midlands - Leicester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/EM/0043
Date of REC Opinion
4 Apr 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion