The perspectives of previous young adult psychiatric patients regarding mental health recovery and the influence of received psychiatric care - a qualitative 20-year follow-up study

Personal recovery for young adults included social changes, comparison with peers, being between dependence and independence, and stigma. Acceptance of vulnerability and maturity helped to increase stability. Communication, participation and the organization of psychiatric care were described within the framework of patient-centred care, with an emphasis on an empathetic approach and the availability of psychiatric care. These findings offer clinically relevant insights into how psychiatric services can support long-term recovery.