Feasibility and Impact of Recovery-Oriented Practices in an Italian Mental Health Service: A Pilot Study

Background In the last decade, Italy has made progressed in adopting the personal recovery-oriented approach. However, full adherence to international recommendations for implementation remains incomplete. Aims This study aimed to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of integrating recovery-oriented practices in an Italian Mental Health Service (MHS). Methods This pilot study used a longitudinal design with two focus groups. At baseline and follow-up data collected was users’ socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, symptoms, functioning, needs for care, functional autonomy. The Mental Health Recovery Star (MHRS) was used to facilitate and monitor recovery. Professionals and users provided feedback using qualitative interviews. Descriptive analyses were conducted. Results Nineteen professionals completed the MHRS with 25 users. From baseline to follow-up users showed an increase in romantic relationship (p<0.001), employment (p<0.001) and addiction (p<0.001), and improvements in the MHRS (p=0.003), functioning (p=0.015), psychopathology (p=0.001), functional autonomy (p=0.003), along with a reduction of unmet needs (p=0.026). Focus groups witnessed active and consistent participation. Both professionals and users positively assessed the study, expressing a desire for more education on recovery, and, generally, saw improved satisfaction and recovery-oriented approaches from baseline to follow-up. Professionals reported higher motivation for work, while users reported comfort sharing views and greater involvement in care, despite some challenges with adherence and collaboration. Conclusions The findings indicate the potential for recovery-oriented practices in the MHS, though further efforts are needed for full integration.