title: Metaphors of a shifting sense of self in men recovering from substance abuse and suicidal behavior.
abstract: The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore and interpret men's experience of sense of self within the context of recovery from substance abuse and suicidal behavior. A secondary analysis of data from a previous study of four young Norwegian men revealed how a shifting sense of self was constructed through the use of metaphors. The analysis identified three themes related to the participants' sense of self: The Meaning of Being Isolated, The Meaning of Being Close to the Point of No Return, and The Meaning of Still Being on the Edge. By acknowledging metaphorical expressions as a source of important knowledge, this study reflects on how mental health professionals can use metaphors in the recovery process. As part of the' treatment alliance and therapeutic communication, we suggest that metaphors may aid the assessment of suicidal ideation, promote a sense of a more active self, and signal acceptance and recognition of subjectivity.
authors.affiliation: Nordic School of Public Health, Göteborg, Sweden. stian.biong@nhv.se
authors.forename: Stian
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Biong
authors.forename: Bengt
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Karlsson
authors.forename: Tommy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Svensson
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003289:Convalescence / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008571:Men / Q000523:psychology*; D019365:Metaphor; D033262:Narration; D009664:Norway; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D011568:Psychiatric Nursing; D012649:Self Concept; D012934:Social Isolation / Q000523:psychology; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires