Narratives of recovery in people with coexisting mental health and alcohol misuse difficulties

People with coexisting substance misuse and mental health difficulties are multiply
disadvantaged, through trauma, stigma, and fragmented services. This thesis explores the
experiences of recovery of this population in order to inform more effective service
responses.
Paper One is a review of the literature on how people with coexisting substance misuse and
mental health difficulties experience recovery. A thematic synthesis of the findings shows
that people follow varied paths to recovery, with personal growth, social relationships,
mental health and substance misuse services, peer support and material security all playing
a role.
Paper Two is an empirical paper which explores the recovery narratives of people with
coexisting mental health and alcohol misuse difficulties, and the role of mental health and
substance misuse services in these narratives. A narrative analysis of ten interviews is
undertaken and shared subplots are identified. The recovery journey is presented in terms
of three broad phases, and the influence of cultural and community narratives are
discussed. The practical and therapeutic value of input from services is explored, and
clinical and research implications are highlighted.
The third paper is a reflective account of the researcher’s journey in creating this thesis. The
personal and professional origins of the thesis are explored, and the influence of the
researcher’s epistemological position is discussed. The practical challenges of carrying out
the research are noted, along with the decisions which the researcher took in order to meet
these challenges.