k u .co. mind our y think re #IFeelBetterWhen T he international understanding of recovery is changing. It used to be thought that recovery means getting rid of un-valued experiences, such as symptoms. This understanding has been challenged by people with lived experience (such as hearing voices and having emotional difficulties), who assert their right to be citizens without needing to first become ‘normal’. This new approach – personal recovery – involves finding a life beyond illness. Personal recovery involves adding, not taking away: creating new layers of positive identity; amplifying the use of personal strengths and social resources; learning that one has something to offer as well as needing support from others; and discovering that lived experience can be an asset, not a vulnerability. The art and poetry in this book illustrate the potential transformation from mental health challenges to interesting, idiosyncratic, creative, flawed, learning, contributing, changing personhood. This book illuminates some key processes in the journey to personal recovery and wellbeing. Professor Mike Slade Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London 6 Foreword