This historical, conceptual, and cultural review of the concept of recovery within the realm of mental health discusses the last decade's research into the subjective experiences of people in the process of recovering from serious mental disorders and analyzes the differences between the notions of rehabilitation, integration, and recovery. After presenting a historical introduction, the article describes recovery experiences from three angles: identity and control over one's own life; personal and community relationships; and material resources, work, and other social activities. The concept of recovery entails new challenges and tensions that must be taken into account in the reform of mental health systems in Europe and the Americas.
recovery; serious mental disorders; narratives
