What is it Like to Recover From Psychosis? An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

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.