Do we need recipes for happiness?

Abstract

Aim: To find out the strategies of people with severe mental disorders (SMD) to be happy. Method: Qualitative phenomenological study, with convenience and purposive sampling. An interview was developed, of which 3 questions were related to the strategies used and desired to achieve happiness. A focus group of 5 people and 16 individual interviews were conducted with people with TMG. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed with the support of N-vivo software. Results: All participants identify their strategies for being happy. When analysed, we found that acceptance, optimism, spirituality, recovery, normality, feeling functional, support and relationships, doing activities, both shared and individual, having basic needs met and some more, are part of the skills or tactics that allow them to achieve happiness. While these strategies do not seem different from those of anyone else, we do find a desire for the absence of stigma about mental illness and protection from rejection. Conclusions: Happiness can be achieved in various and personal ways, and regardless of the disease that accompanies you.