Bonding and bridging social capital in the recovery of severe mental illness: a synthesis of qualitative research

AbstractBackground: Social networks are known to have a major influence on the recovery journey of people with severe mental illness (SMI).Aims: To understand the role of bonding and bridging social capital in the recovery process following SMI and to identify the barriers that prevent social networks from being mobilized.Method: A review of major electronic databases for qualitative studies from 2006 to 2015 (41 papers) was undertaken for thematic synthesis.Result: The main themes for bonding social capital included: a buffer for isolation and loneliness, variations depending on illness stages, balance in relationships and connections as a source of self-management. Main themes for bridging social capital comprised: feeling powerless and excluded from community/health care, social care beyond the illness, social care barriers and social inclusion through community groups.Conclusion: All those involved in the management of SMI must be aware of how social support networks hinder or contribute to recovery. ...