Chatwiriyaphong R.Fernandez R.Bosworth R.Kinghorn G.Moxham L.Mahidol University2025-02-252025-02-252025-01-01Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (2025)13510126https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/105439Introduction: While the recovery approach is gaining recognition in non-Western countries, it remains underexplored in Southeast Asia. This study addressed this gap by examining how health professionals and students conceptualised recovery, providing insights for enhancing mental health practices. Aim: To synthesise how health professionals and students in Southeast Asian countries understand mental health recovery. Methods: A search across CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and the Web of Science identified ten qualitative studies (2006–2024). Data extraction, quality appraisal, and synthesis were conducted following the JBI methodology. Results: The findings highlighted a medically driven and determined return to normal functioning for individuals living with mental illness. This was classified into six categories: return to being a ‘normal person’, symptom-free status, medication adherence, access to mental health services, living with residual symptoms, and holistic care with a psychosocial focus. Discussion: Medical-oriented practices have dominated mental health care, creating a power imbalance. Training, education, culture, socioeconomic status, and stigma have shaped the understanding of recovery. Implications for Practice and Recommendations: Shared decision-making and formal training prioritising lived experiences are vital to reducing power imbalances. A shift towards recovery-oriented approaches is critically needed to enhance mental health practices in Southeast Asia.NursingReviewSCOPUS10.1111/jpm.131582-s2.0-8521801039413652850