The meaning of recovery according to bipolar patients

Objective: The purpose of this study; is to identify the emotions and thoughts of the bipolar patients, and to determine the factors affecting recovery process, and to present the whole picture of recovery experience by displaying the meanings given by the bipolar patients to recovery. Method: This study is based on a phenomenological design pattern of qualitative research methods. In-depth interviews by using a semi-structured interview form were conducted with 28 participants who were identified by means of criterion sampling method which is a purposeful sampling method. The questions included in the interview form were directed to the meaning of recovery, the emotions of recovery, factors affecting recovery and individual efforts for recovery. The qualitative data analysis program MAXQDA Plus was used for data analysis and inductive-based analysis was made. Results: The concept of recovery has depicted with, metaphor of the journey, the beginning of the journey, the route of the journey, the station in the journey, the meaning of the journey. The occurrence or recurrence of bipolar disorder has 'The Beginning of Journey'. Individuals has taken the road their journey of recovery by taking good and bad things in their lives. There have been the perceptions, feelings, information, experiences about the bipolar disorder, family, social environment, drug, and durability levels in the suitcase. The ticket required to travel has described as 'drugs'. It has determined that the shared expressions related to drug use were gathered on; 'never without medicines!', 'I stopped but why?' and 'I used, result same'. Each journey has a route and each passenger has a target. In this direction, the theme of 'The Route of the Journey' has been formed. The theme of 'The Station in the Journey' has represented the hospital processes of individuals. This theme has consisted of 'hospital station', 'station staff' and 'companions'. Individuals have explained 'The Meaning of the Journey' as producing, loving, understanding love and reaching happiness. Conclusion: As a result of the study, the meaning of recovery is predominantly in line with the contemporary approach of being involved in society, working, nesting, being productive, good relations, having an occupation, sustaining everyday life. In addition, there are some definitions which supports the definition of traditional recovery; such as not using drugs, returning to old life, lack of symptoms and no disease. The most basic feeling for recovery is happiness. Key words: Bipolar disorder; recovery; qualitative research; phenomenology