ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a definition of recovery and explores three graphic illustrations that have been developed as a result of listening to the stories heard. The recovery involves self-activation, the taking of personal responsibility and the development of personal resources and support systems, which enable people to flourish and have a zest for living, even when life becomes challenging. The 'Nature of the Person' seeks to depict the human being as a unique spirit embedded in a number of personal and social storytelling bodies, and to illustrate the relationship between the different processes involved in people's journey into severe emotional distress, and, subsequently, their journey towards recovery. With each new achievement the person comes to a stage in their recovery where they develop an internally generated resilience. The recovery map places each person at the heart of a resourceful local community which contains a multitude of potential social networks and resources for living.
