Meanings of hope constructed by users of mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the production of meanings of hope in the discourses of specialized mental health services users in an inland city of Minas Gerais in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Qualitative study based on the theoretical-methodological framework of French Discourse Analysis and the theoretical construct of hope. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from August 2022 to May 2023. Results: The discursive block entitled “The meanings of Hope constructed in the COVID-19 Pandemic” addresses the meanings constructed about hope that are permeated by the effects arising from discursive memories. The discursive excerpts enunciate signs of religious/spirituality discourse; solidarity discourse; disease model; and resilience discourse. Conclusion: Pre-constructed discourses elsewhere on spirituality/religiosity, solidarity, disease model and resilience permeate the production of meanings of hope in the discourses of mental health services users. It is important to enable nurses to grasp the constructed meanings of hope and to recognize them as a therapeutic resource that constitutes care.