Study Underway To Explore Mental Health Recovery Stories In Sussex

A study into the benefits of reading, watching, or listening to the recovery stories of others on people who are affected by mental health difficulties is underway in Sussex.

The trials is part of a national initiative by a team at Nottingham University and supported by researchers at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. 

The trials are open to people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties, including people living with psychosis, depression, and anxiety - with one trial also open to families and carers.

The online narratives form the world's largest collection of recovery stories and are part of a research project called NEON.

First person accounts describe struggles people have had with mental health and their strength, survival, and recovery experiences.

Dr Mark Hayward, Director of Research, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust said:

"At a time when our mental health is being affected by the pandemic, it's important to have some hope. 

"The narratives available within the NEON study offer this hope, as they bring to life the resilience, courage and creativity demonstrated by so many people when they are recovering from mental health problems. 

Most importantly, the narratives are online and can be accessed whenever and wherever they are needed."

The trials are ongoing and anyone interested in taking part please contact [email protected] or visit www.recoverystories.uk