Recovering in depressed women: research with Peplau's theory.

The purpose of this research was to describe the process of recovering in women who have been depressed. The descriptive research design for this study was guided by Peplau's interpersonal theory of nursing. The sample consisted of seven women who had at one time been hospitalized with a diagnosis of depression and who now considered themselves to be recovering. Audiotaped interviews were conducted in the women's homes. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using content analysis. The analysis revealed that the process of recovering as described by the seven depressed women consisted of eight categories which comprised three phases. Recovering was initiated by a crisis or turning point experience. Phase I consists of the turning point and professional support; phase II consists of determination, work-over-time, support of family and friends, and successes; and phase III consists of self-esteem and maintaining balance. The process of recovering is internal and ongoing. Further research is suggested.