What does it mean to thrive Rethinking outcomes in mental illness

Mental health research has traditionally defined good outcomes in terms of symptom reduction and improvements in functioning. While these outcomes are important, they only capture part of what it means to live well among people with mental health challenges. In this talk, I will draw on a programme of research that explores how people can create meaningful and fulfilling lives alongside or following mental health challenges, with a particular focus on experiences of posttraumatic growth, generativity and compassion. I will also discuss the personal, relational, and socioecological conditions that can enable and stymie opportunities for people with mental health challenges to flourish.