Impact of a diagnosis of psychosis: user-led qualitative study

Impact of a diagnosis of psychosis: user-led qualitative study, Psychiatric Bulletin (2009) 33: 419-423

Liz Pitt, User Researcher

Psychology Services, Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Bury New Road, Prestwich, Manchester M25 3BL

Martina Kilbride, User Researcher (deceased) and Mary Welford, Clinical Psychologist

Psychology Services

Sarah Nothard, Clinical Psychologist

Early Intervention Services, Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust

Anthony P. Morrison, Professor of Clinical Psychology

School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester and Early Intervention Services, Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust

Abstract:

AIMS AND METHOD

To explore the impact of diagnosis on people who experience psychosis. Eight participants were interviewed about the impact that diagnosis had on them.

RESULTS

The research found that the impact of diagnosis can involve both positive and negative elements. It can be a ‘means of access’ as well as a ‘cause of disempowerment’. It can help by ‘naming the problem’ and hinder by ‘labelling the person’. It is a ‘cause of social exclusion’ for all, but despite this service users can be successful in ‘achieving social inclusion’.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The findings have implications for how diagnosis is imparted by psychiatrists if they are to help to facilitate recovery and social inclusion.

Lancashire Care staff can request the full-text of this paper, email: susan.jennings@lancashirecare.nhs.uk