Identifying the facilitators and processes which influence recovery in individuals with schizophrenia: a systematic review and thematic synthesis

Background: Research is required to better understand the psychosocial factors that influence the recovery of individuals with schizophrenia.
Objective: To conduct a systematic review and thematic synthesis and identify the factors which influence recovery.
Methods: Major electronic databases were searched from inception until February 2014. Qualitative articles were included that considered the concept of recovery from individuals with schizophrenia, their caregivers or health care professionals. Methodological quality was assessed and studies were thematically synthesised.
Results: Twenty articles involving 585 individuals with schizophrenia, 298 primary care givers or close sources of support and 47 health care professionals were included. The results identified and detailed the psychosocial factors and processes that influenced recovery. The factors which promoted recovery included: (1) adjustment, coping and reappraisal (2) responding to the illness (3) social support, close relationships and belonging. The factors which challenged recovery included: (1) negative interactions and isolation (2) internal barriers (3) uncertainty and hopelessness.
Conclusion: Health care professionals and researchers will benefit from a greater understanding of the psychosocial factors which influence recovery for individuals with schizophrenia. Implications are discussed within the text.