Living with Serious Mental Illness: The Desire for Normalcy

Abstract

This article describes the desire for normalcy as experienced by 6 men and 13 women with serious mental illness based on secondary analysis of data from two previous qualitative studies. Original data were collected by structured and semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis was done. Major categories of desire for normalcy are having normal things and experiences; doing meaningful activities; and being well, safe, free, and independent. Self-care actions to promote and maintain normalcy are identified, and findings are discussed in relation to Orem’s self-care deficit theory of nursing. Implications for nursing theory, research, and practice are addressed.