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Wanting to be heard: mental health consumers’ experiences of information about medication
Author(s) -
Happell Brenda,
Manias Elizabeth,
Roper Cath
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
international journal of mental health nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.911
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1447-0349
pISSN - 1445-8330
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-0979.2004.00340.x
Subject(s) - acknowledgement , mental health , focus group , medical prescription , qualitative research , psychology , mental illness , mental health nursing , nursing , medicine , psychiatry , marketing , sociology , business , social science , computer security , computer science
The complexities accompanying the prescription of antipsychotic medication for people experiencing a mental illness have been extensively documented in the literature. The views and experiences of consumers of mental health services, however, are almost entirely absent. This paper describes the findings of a qualitative study undertaken to examine the experiences of consumers, specifically in relation to education and decision making with regards to medication. The findings from a focus group conducted with consumers ( n = 9) revealed an overall dissatisfaction with information provided and the opportunity to participate in decision making. Data analysis revealed four major themes: information to consumers; acknowledgement and recognition of consumers; roles of health professionals; and the experience of wellness and adherence. The findings suggest the need for significant change if the goals of the Third National Mental Health Plan are to be realized.