Post-Traumatic Growth In Recovery Narratives: A Thematic Analysis of a Public Health Stigma-Reduction Campaign

Background and Purpose:
Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) is particularly relevant for individuals in substance use recovery, as it reflects positive psychological change following adversity, when they are not only surviving but also thriving. Individuals with substance use histories often experience heightened exposure to trauma and may be uniquely positioned to experience growth through recovery. Despite this, PTG within substance use recovery remains understudied, particularly in the context of stigma-reduction efforts. This study examines how individuals in recovery express PTG within narratives shared as part of a public health anti-stigma campaign, with the goal of identifying key dimensions of growth and meaning-making in this population.

Methods:
This study analyzed a subset of publicly available video-recorded recovery narratives (n = 76) collected as part of a stigma-reduction public health campaign. Narratives were brief and participant-driven and collected without a standardized interview guide. Transcripts were uploaded into Dedoose and analyzed using Applied Thematic Analysis. Coding was conducted by two independent coders using a deductive approach informed by a Post-Traumatic Growth framework, with flexibility for iterative code refinement. Interrater reliability was strong (Cohen’s κ = 0.77). Codes were iteratively refined through consensus meetings and organized into broader themes.

Results:
Findings indicate that participants frequently expressed multiple dimensions of PTG within their recovery narratives. The most prominent themes included growth and transformation, characterized by increased strength, purpose, and personal development; identity and meaning, reflecting a redefined sense of self and life purpose; and helping others or giving back, where individuals framed their recovery as a means to support and inspire others. Social support emerged as a key facilitator of growth, while ongoing challenge and resilience underscored the non-linear nature of recovery. Many narratives also described turning points or catalysts for change that initiated growth processes, and a subset of narratives referenced spirituality and faith as sources of strength. Although narratives varied in depth, PTG-related themes were consistently observed across accounts.

Conclusions and Implications:
These findings demonstrate that PTG is a salient and naturally occurring feature of recovery narratives shared within stigma-reduction campaigns. By foregrounding themes of growth, resilience, and meaning-making, these narratives may serve as mechanisms for reshaping public perceptions of substance use and recovery. Results have implications for the design of public health messaging and interventions that leverage lived experience storytelling to reduce stigma and promote hope and help-seeking.