A longitudinal qualitative follow-up study of post-traumatic growth among service users who experienced positive change following a first episode of psychosis

Background: Posttraumatic growth refers to the positive psychological changes that people experience following a traumatic or adverse event; and has been reported among people who have experienced a first episode of psychosis. This body of research has an important limitation of not having examined how experiences of posttraumatic growth following a first episode of psychosis change over time. In this study, we examined different aspects and facilitators of posttraumatic growth approximately one year following participants’ initial interview.

Methods: Data were collected via semi-structured individual interviews with seven participants and analyzed using thematic analysis. Themes generated from the follow-up interviews were compared with those developed from the initial interviews.

Results: Participants experienced challenges at the intersection of trauma, social adversity, and oppression; yet they also reported an improved sense of self; improved relationships with others; embracing existing or new activities; and engaging with and giving back to others. These changes were facilitated by personal resources; social and community-based support; and traditional mental health services and interventions.

Discussion: Posttraumatic growth may continue over time. The broader social determinants of health that may lead to a resurgence of psychosis and potential challenges to posttraumatic growth, such as inequality, poverty, and discrimination, should be addressed.