Hero or warrior: who gets to choose the metaphor of mental health survival?

Purpose This study aims to explore the implications of framing mental health survival and recovery through the metaphors of “hero” and “warrior,” and to examine how authorship of the metaphors influences empowerment and autonomy. Design/methodology/approach A reflective viewpoint drawing on lived experience of trauma recovery, engagement with a variety of therapeutic modalities and critical analysis of narrative framing within mental health discourse. Findings Externally imposed “hero” narratives, while often well-intentioned, may risk romanticising suffering and limiting autonomy. In contrast, self-chosen metaphors – such as adopting a “warrior” identity – can function as adaptive tools that restore agency during recovery. Research limitations/implications This paper draws primarily on reflective lived experience and conceptual analysis rather than empirical data. The arguments therefore highlight conceptual considerations for practice rather than providing generalisable findings. Practical implications This paper highlights considerations for practitioners, including awareness of imposed metaphors, supporting narrative authorship and avoiding subtle exclusion through enforced positivity. Originality/value By highlighting the importance of narrative authorship, this paper contributes to recovery-oriented practice, showing that empowerment lies not in external labels, but in reclaiming the right to frame one’s own lived experience.