Discourses of compassion from the margins of health care: the perspectives and experiences of people with a mental health condition

Abstract Background Evidence supports the positive influence of compassion on care experiences and health outcomes. However, there is limited understanding regarding how compassion is identified by people with lived experience of mental health care. Aim To explore the views and experiences of compassion from people who have lived experience of mental health. Methods Participants with a self-reported mental health condition and lived experience of mental health (n = 10) were interviewed in a community setting. Characteristics of compassion were identified using an interpretative description approach. Results Study participants identified compassion as comprised three key components; 'the compassionate virtues of the healthcare professional', which informs 'compassionate engagement', creating a 'compassionate relational space and the patient’s felt-sense response'. When all these elements were in place, enhanced recovery and healing was felt to be possible. Without the experience of compassion, mental health could be adversely affected, exacerbating mental health conditions, and leading to detachment from engaging with health services. Conclusions The experience of compassion mobilises hope and promotes recovery. Health care policymakers and organisations must ensure services are structured to provide space and time for compassion to flourish. It is imperative that all staff are provided with training so that compassion can be acquired and developed.