Recovery means different things to different people including:
The recovery process varies from person to person in terms of duration and degree of improvement. Some people will recover very quickly and be ready to return to their life and responsibilities soon after. Other individuals will need time to respond to treatment and may need to return to their responsibilities more gradually. If symptoms remain or return, the recovery process may be prolonged. Some people experience a difficult period lasting months or even years before they feel able to function fully in their usual responsibilities. Not everyone will stop having symptoms during their recovery – the key is to stop the symptoms affecting the person's life as much.
Recovery may involve:
During the recovery journey there will be growth and setbacks, times of change and maybe times where there seem to be little change. It takes time to rebuild confidence and abilities after experiencing the effects of mental illness.
People in recovery may experience a range of challenges including:
Below are reflections from people in Qatar on their recovery journey from mental illness:
"I can get along with my life most of the time. As much as I can, I try to avoid anything that could make me anxious or upset"
"I am (finally) in recovery from anxiety. Notice I did not say I am recovered from it, but I am actively working on my recovery"
"… I accepted myself for who I am… I used to wonder why I'm different from other people while now I understand what works for me and what doesn't work… and I just go for it…"
"It's just like for diabetic people for example… I can completely recover but I must have medication for staying in a good health and I might need to talk to somebody every two months.
But I can run my own life and enjoy it, instead of staying at the bottom… "
"The medication is just one of many tools in my recovery toolbox"
"There is always hope…"
"Learning to live with a mental illness has made me a wiser person. When I am able to better realize my limitations and my potential, and take better care for myself. I am a happier person which can only make those around me happier too."
"I can have fun and laugh with my children again.
I think that matters far more than anything else"