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6. GENERAL DISCUSSION = 79
dict identity” (that were experienced by recovering psychoactive substance
users) that may play a crucial role in recovery did not appear in the experi¬
ences of SC users. Study 4 investigated a different kind of recovery process,
the experience of voice hearing individuals who are in recovery. In the initial
phase the experience of voice hearing could be frightening, the study findings
suggest the change of experiences after accepting the voices. The acceptance
of the disorder could happen through the support of the self-help group,
where the voice hearing method is applied. Voice hearers could gain a sense
of control and give meaning to their condition. Participants recounted rec¬
onciling with the voices and reconciling with the outside world. The voice
hearing method helped not only to control or master the voices but also al¬
lowed some participants to live with the voices integrated into a full life.
6.3. CONTRIBUTION TO THE FIELD AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS
As mentioned earlier it is necessary to legitimate the existence of the recovery
approach by scientific research that outline personal experiences. The task of
the researcher is to clarify the most critical aspects of this approach by giving
a voice to individuals who have personal lived experiences of recovery. The
present sub-chapter aims to discuss each ofthe empirical studies’ contribution
to the field and what practical implications could be.
6.3.1. Study 1
Study 1 aimed to explore the identity aspects of being a recovering helper. The
study findings are coherent with the literature and suggest that processing
experiences of addiction are important parts of recovery from addiction (Hill
& Leeming, 2014; Larkin & Griffiths, 2002) because people in recovery need
to give meaning to their struggles (Rodriguez & Smith, 2014) by re-evaluating
their experiences of addiction and reconstructing their life narratives. Because
of constant vigilance is required against an addiction that is a constantly
tempting re-evaluation of experiences and reconstruction of life narratives
are always parts of the recovery process which are described as a lifelong
journey (Laudet, 2007; Shinebourne & Smith, 201 1a). That is why the identity
of recovery could become a determinative part of the person's identity. Study
1 concerned with what happens when an experience (of being a helper) which
also could have an impact on identity appears.
The results of Study 1 suggest that being a helper could complete and support
the recovery process. This is due to two facts. Helping someone who also has a
problem with addiction is considered to be a reinforcing factor in the own re¬
covery from addiction that is why it is a part of the 12-step groups’ program