‘There is anointing everywhere': An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the role of religion in the recovery of black African service users in England

Abstract

Introduction Religion is an important impetus for recovery. However, there has been little work examining the role of religion in recovery for black African service users (BASUs) in England.

Aim The aim of this study is to explore how religion influences recovery from mental illness for BASUs in England.

Method 12 black African service users were purposively selected and interviewed using face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews. Data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Results The study generates fascinating insights that BASUs views about mental illness and recovery are influenced by Pentecostalism and traditional African healing systems.

Discussion The participants' perceptions of their mental illness experiences and recovery which are characterised by the pragmatism of Pentecostalism and cultural beliefs are consistent with what is reported in the literature.

Implications for Practice The findings of the study show that broad changes are needed to accommodate the religious coping of BASUs in their recovery journey.