Spontaneous recovery from depression in women: a qualitative study of vulnerabilities, strengths and resources.

OBJECTIVE To gain insight into the perceived vulnerability and restitution factors for anxiety/or depression. METHODS Focus group discussion of seven married women recovered spontaneously from anxiety and/or depression, belonging to a lower middle class semi-urban community of Karachi. RESULTS Poverty, unemployment, abuse and on going difficulties were perceived as risk factors for depression. A reliable social support system, positive thinking approach, faith, prayers, and experiencing a "turning point" event were reported as factors that promoted recovery from anxiety and/or depression. CONCLUSION Individual vulnerabilities, strengths and resources can have an important role in recovery from anxiety and/or depression in women.