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Expectations vs reality: The expectations and experiences of psychiatric treatment reported by young adults at a mood and anxiety outpatient mental health program
Author(s) -
Armstrong Sarah,
Wammes Michael,
Arcaro Justin,
Hostland Amanda,
Summerhurst Carolyn,
Osuch Elizabeth
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
early intervention in psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.087
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1751-7893
pISSN - 1751-7885
DOI - 10.1111/eip.12550
Subject(s) - apprehension , anxiety , mood , mental health , psychiatry , psychology , clinical psychology , medicine , cognitive psychology
Aim To compare young adults' expectations of psychiatric treatment to their actual experiences and identify myths and assumptions that youth might hold prior to receiving care. Methods We interviewed youth who engaged in at least 4 months of treatment at the First Episode Mood and Anxiety Program to theme saturation ( N = 20). They were asked about their experience of treatment and the expectations they had prior to care. Transcribed interviews were analysed for themes. Results Results indicated that participants often expected a cold, serious atmosphere, a “quick fix,” and a directive therapeutic relationship. Although most patients had a negative experience at some point in their care, they overall described a welcoming environment with engaged providers and a collaborative therapeutic relationship. Participants found treatment more complex than they had anticipated, but ultimately experienced strengthening of agency and a change in perspective. Conclusions These results identify a need to recognize assumptions held by young adults seeking treatment for mental health symptoms. Addressing these preconceptions might reduce apprehension and improve readiness for treatment. This research provides direction on how to dispel myths and better prepare youth for the work involved in effective psychiatric care.