“You've got to have a positive state of mind”: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of hope and first episode psychosis

Abstract

Background: Recent research and service user accounts have highlighted the importance of hope in facilitating recovery from psychosis. The time following a first episode has been identified as being critical and formative in the adjustment to psychosis and is characterized by high levels of hopelessness.

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the personal experiences of participants following a recent first episode of psychosis, and explore influences on feelings of hope.

Method: Five male participants were interviewed within 8 months of their first episode of psychosis. A semi-structured interview was used, focusing on experiences of hope. The research was conducted using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results: Three superordinate themes emerged that were described under the broad headings of: “What's it all about?”, “Banged up”, and “Belonging versus alone”.

Conclusions: The search for meaning and a sense of belonging were crucial in maintaining hope. Hopelessness was associated with experiences of psychiatric hospital. The findings highlight the importance of supporting individuals in exploring the meaning of their experiences.

Declaration of interest: None

Keywords:

• Hope
• psychosis
• qualitative research
• Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis