Research in mental health is dominated by quantitative research methods. Although this typical format supplies data, it restricts the range of responses to those categories deemed to be of interest to the researcher. Other more self-directed qualitative assessments may provide better insight into the true nature of the client's own unique ability to cope with these severe illnesses. However, little qualitative work has been done with this population. In this pilot study, a qualitative method was used to explore the techniques employed by persons diagnosed with severe mental illness to cope as they transition from the hospital to the community. Following treatment in an intensive inpatient program (Intermediate Treatment Program, ITP) for frequent recidivists with lack of insight into their illness, informants diagnosed with mental illness were recruited for open-ended interviews to share their stories. Four of eight individuals approached agreed to be interviewed. Interviews were recorded on audiotape and transcribed. Themes were developed and patterns emerged of interactions between areas of past and present psychiatric hospitalizations, assessment of the ITP, transitional coping mechanisms, and self-recognition of the "diagnosis" and its role in their lives. Of particular interest was the discovery of an underlying theme of "untouchable" aspects of themselves as individuals, unchanged by the presence of the illness. The authors conclude that this research approach allows the informants diagnosed with mental illness a supportive format to assess their experiences to help teach the mental health treatment system better ways to deliver service.
Learning Objectives: After participating in or viewing this presentation, the participant will be able to: 1) view data collection with this population from a different perspective, 2) examine the role of qualitative research in developing better insight into this population, 3) observe an example of the process of examining data for underlying themes.
Keywords: Mental Illness, Coping
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.