What is it Like to Recover From Psychosis? An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Samuel Thoma, Cassandre Bois, Kae Eichel, István Fazakas, Matthias Pauge, Thelke Scholz, Maia Witzig, Laura Galbusera
Human Arenas September 26, 2026 DOI: 10.1007/s42087-026-00699-8 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 6 |
| Population | Individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia (F20.0; F25.-) who consider themselves recovered, aged 35-78 years (4 men, 2 women) |
| Key findings | Recovery from psychosis is described as a dynamic, non-linear process involving feeling pulled downward, self-doubt, emergence, resonance with oneself and others, and self-acceptance. The authors argue that recovery is deeply embodied and relational, involving verticality and horizontality, and that it constitutes an existential transformation rather than mere symptom remission. |
Abstract
Abstract This study aims to explore the lived experience of recovery from psychosis, with a focus on pre-reflective, embodied, and intersubjective aspects. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. The data collected were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). In total, six persons (age 35-78y, m = 4 w = 2, diagnosis F20.0; F25.-) who claim themselves to be recovered took part in this study. The analysis revealed six key experiential themes. Recovery was characterized as a dynamic, non-linear process involving feelings of being pulled downward, self-doubt, emergence, resonance with oneself, resonance with others, and self-acceptance. The findings indicate that recovery is not solely cognitive or narrative-based but is also deeply embodied and relational, with significant roles played by experiential dimensions of verticality (e.g. a sense of being pulled downward or lightness) and horizontality (losing or re-gaining intercorporeal connection). The study challenges existing models by emphasizing existential transformation over mere symptom remission. It advocates for more holistic and experience-based approaches in clinical practice to better support individuals recovering from psychosis.
Citations in the library
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