'I am proud of how I handled it'. Exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions on well-being of adults with severe mental illness using qualitative methods.

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and related restrictions globally impacted mental health, particularly for those with pre-existing severe mental illness (SMI). This qualitative study examined how adults with SMI perceived the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions in the Netherlands, focusing on their personal recovery, well-being and daily life, including an exploration of factors influencing these effects.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted, audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim.