Post-traumatic growth (PTG) is a process of positive change and transformation in the aftermath of a traumatic event. By now, it is well-documented that struggle in the face of adversity can lead to greater personal strength, stronger relationships, and new possibilities that reach beyond what the person had prior to the event.

While research on PTG has grown amply over the last 20 years, less is known about how it operates in those with serious mental health conditions. In order to deepen insight into how this process works in a population that is traditionally underserved, Professor Mike Slade of the University of Nottingham and his collaborators interviewed 77 British participants who struggled with serious mental illness about their recovery journeys. The participants’ backgrounds were diverse and included ethnic minorities, LGBT+ individuals, peer volunteers with lived experience of coping with mental health conditions, and people living with psychosis. After the interview, a team of coders analyzed their narratives for themes.

The results were striking. A thematic analysis revealed six overarching themes, reflecting different dimensions of growth after trauma. A general overview of the findings is provided below.

Theme 1: Self-Discovery

This theme captures the development of a “fuller and deeper” understanding of self. Participants reported having more access, acceptance, and mindfulness when dealing with difficult emotions. A participant shared: “It’s all about self-accepting, getting to know me, and it helped.”

Theme 2: Sense of Self

Participants developed a more positive sense of self, in which experiences with mental illness were integrated and reframed as having value. A salient theme was feeling proud of oneself. A participant expressed: “I believe in my self-worth these days... I must pat myself on the back.”

Theme 3: Life Perspective

Participants regained or cultivated a new appreciation and gratitude for life. They also found meaning in their experiences: An interviewee reflected: “Wow, I see where I am, and I go back to then, and I just think, ‘You didn't go through that in vain.’”

Theme 4: Well-Being

The psychological changes outlined above worked in concert with participants taking a more proactive approach to their well-being and lifestyle—and resolving to “stay well.” This translated into increased involvement in the arts, music, sports, nature, and learning. A participant remarked: “...I’ve just found learning to be so therapeutic and rewarding that I feel like I am at a point now where I can actually study and put my mind towards... doing something worthwhile.”

Theme 5: Relationships

Participants’ relationships changed in the process of PTG, in which they decided to continue, renew, or end connections with others. They also developed greater empathy for others and the desire to give back, as one participant’s narrative captured: “I just see myself as hopefully being a beacon to others who are, you know, struggling, and others who are finding things difficult.”

Theme 6: Spirituality

Participants became more deeply spiritual and religious, whether that be through greater awareness or actual practice. An interviewee simply stated: “Just pray, pray. (laughs) It works, do it, don't be scared.”