How the dynamic interplay of resources shapes recovery capital in persons diagnosed with schizophrenia: insights from a qualitative study

Background Recovery in persons diagnosed with schizophrenia is determined by a vast array of individual, treatment, and community-related factors. However, little is known about how these elements interact to form “recovery capital” and support the recovery journey. The present study aimed to explore perspectives on recovery capital among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, their family carers, and mental health professionals working with them.Methods Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia (n = 28), family carers (n = 32), and mental health professionals (n = 42). Data were analysed through framework analysis and triangulation.Results The study found broad agreement among stakeholders on the centrality of recovery capital in the recovery journey and its continuous evolution in response to the dynamic interplay of personal, social, treatment-related, and spiritual-religious factors.Discussion Stakeholders underscored the role of recovery capital in the recovery process, highlighting the need for comprehensive interventions to meaningfully harness this capital to improve outcomes.