Effectiveness of recovery programs

Several explorative studies on what helps recovery processes have shown the importance of self-determination, self-help and mutual support, the creation of new roles based on positive labelling of psychiatric experiences and developing personalized meaning to experiences of distress instead of complying to „the doctor's view“. Yet, until now these factors have not been studied on their effect.

The symposium presents the results of three randomized trials of recovery programs: (1) a comprehensive user-run recovery program, (2) a 3-months user-run recovery course, and (3) a training program promoting recovery oriented working for professionals.

In the first paper, Hans Kroon will present the program TREE (Towards Recovery Empowerment and Experiential Expertise) and discuss the results of a 2-year multi-site randomised controlled trial (N=175). The program consisted of a user run recovery group and short recovery courses, added to care as usual. Participants of the TREE program had positive effects on mental health confidence, depressive symptoms, negative symptoms and self esteem, compared to a waitlist control group.

In the second paper, Hanneke van Gestel-Timmermans will present the results of a feasibility and outcome study of the peer-run recovery course "Recovery is up to you". The feasibility study showed that participants especially valued three aspects of the course: modelling, the group process and the course material. Instructors adhered to the protocol. In a multi-site randomised trial (N=333) assessments took place at baseline, after 3 months (at the end of the course), and at 6 months. Compared to a waitlist control, group participants had higher scores on several key elements of recovery.

In the third paper, Greet Wilrycx followed-up the phased implementation of a training program for mental health professionals to promote recovery oriented working using the stepped-wedge trial methodology (N=210 professionals and 142 clients). Assessments took place at five time points during two years. Results show a positive change in attitude and knowledge about recovery processes among professionals and clients. Preliminary data show no change in client outcomes.

Finally, Wilma Boevink will discuss the results of these studies in the light of international developments in recovery empowerment and experiential expertise.

Keywords: Recovery-oriented interventions, treatment-effectiveness, severe mental illness.