Reconstruction of Personal Identity and Quality of Life Among Persons with Severe Mental Illness: A Case Example of Narrative Group Practice in South Korea

This chapter explores the role of narrative therapy in the recovery from mental illness in South Korea. It highlights how this approach, when implemented in a group setting at a Korean rehabilitation facility, empowers individuals with severe mental illness to reshape their narratives, thereby regaining hope and a sense of control over their lives. The chapter begins by contextualizing the mental health landscape in South Korea, noting the high incidence of mental disorders along with the persistent challenges posed by stigma and discrimination. It then addresses the relationship between self-stigma and recovery, examining various interventions aimed at reducing self-stigma. These are crucial for helping individuals refute negative self-perceptions and reconstruct their personal stories as part of the recovery process. The chapter underscores the transformative power of narrative therapy in reshaping identities obscured by pathology and stigma. By re-authoring their life stories, individuals can redefine their identities, moving beyond the constraints of their mental illness. A case study from a narrative group therapy program in South Korea is presented to illustrate this process, showing how the group’s feedback aids a participant in reshaping her self-image and reclaiming her life. In conclusion, the chapter advocates for the broader application of narrative therapy in community mental health services, as it offers a promising avenue for empowering individuals with severe mental illness and addiction issues. It addresses the importance of overcoming current challenges in the implementation of narrative therapy and provides practical suggestions.