Psychiatric hospitalization: listening to those who experienced it

ouvindo quem passou pela experiência

Abstract

This is a qualitative study with a phenomenological approach that aims to elucidate the phenomenon of "being hospitalized in a psychiatric ward", considering the reports of those who experienced it. Eight patients admitted in a psychiatric ward of the Clinical Hospital of Marilia underwent two semi-structured interviews which were recorded and then transcribed. The first interview was performed within five days of admission and the second one was obtained at the moment of hospital discharge. Patient's reports were analyzed and separated in eight thematic groups: 1) history of the disease; 2) family relationships; 3) feelings during the hospitalization; 4) impressions about the ward and the treatment; 5) influence of religion; 6) medication; 7) previous hospitalization in psychiatric institution, and 8) perspectives for the future. Results show that psychiatric diseases cause great suffering, which may become a reason for hospitalization. Moreover, pathologic family relationships and incorrect use of medications seem to enhance suffering. Religion also seems to have an effect on psychiatric patients, either in a positive or in a negative way. Reports show that patients find it hard to accept hospitalization at first, but they recognize its benefits during the process, when they are able to go back home and relate their perspectives for the future.