Abstract summary 

The purpose of the present study was to investigate and describe from the participants' perspectives the factors and processes influencing their choice as to whether to use prescribed psychiatric medication.Thematic content analysis of data was obtained from semi-structured interviews with 19 individuals diagnosed with mental illnesses.Central themes related to using psychiatric medication were negative side effects, feeling like a "guinea pig," stigma, and struggling with the decision to continue or not to continue to take medication. The consequences of this decision were also considered.Our findings support the notion that "non-adherence" related to psychiatric medication is not simply a "problem" but rather a complex issue requiring personalized attention. To further examine the potential usefulness of psychiatric medication, it is important that medication be perceived as personally relevant and that medication issues be discussed within the context of an ongoing authentic dialogue between medication prescriber and user.

Authors & Co-authors:  Swarbrick Margaret M Roe David D

Study Outcome 

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