1. What does recovery from schizophrenia mean? Perceptions of long-term patients.
- Author
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Ng RM, Pearson V, Lam M, Law CW, Chiu CP, and Chen EY
- Subjects
- Adaptation, Psychological, Attitude to Health, China, Chronic Disease, Culture, Focus Groups, Humans, Models, Theoretical, Social Adjustment, Outcome Assessment, Health Care, Schizophrenia drug therapy, Schizophrenic Psychology
- Abstract
Background: The study investigated the meaning of recovery to eight people with chronic schizophrenia., Method: A qualitative methodology was used based on a 3-hour focus group. The material was transcribed and analysed into 18 subcategories and 4 categories; namely recovery as a multi-dimensional construct, the relationship of medication to recovery, a sense of hopelessness and helplessness about recovery, factors that promoted recovery., Discussion: Respondents believed that full recovery could not be said to have been achieved until they stopped medication and had a steady job. The support and care of family and friends were also vital, although sometimes problematic. Independent living has a different meaning in Chinese culture., Conclusions: Further research directions are suggested as well as ways to change attitudes to the inclusion of medication in recovery.
- Published
- 2008
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