For most of us, the term recovery in mental health implies hope and normality for those suffering from emotional distress.

It is understandable why recovery has therefore become a significant goal for mental health services.

But what does recovery mean for those who are struggling to see it through? Is the emphasis on recovery always a positive thing. This book takes a critical sociological look at personal and public assumptions and understandings. In particular:

• It explores what the recovery movement signifies today, offering readers a critical, reflexive view of its scientific, policy and political consequences
• It considers what recovery means from social, medical and patient perspectives, and the implications of these conflicting views
• It reveals some of the risks and benefits for people with mental health problems encountering a system that expects them to recover

Offering a comprehensive and thought-provoking overview of the concept of recovery from mental illness, this book is a must-have for students studying mental health across a range of subjects, including sociology, social work, psychology and nursing.