Exorcising memories of internalised stigma: The demons of lived experience

Lived experience of psychosis: challenges and perspectives for research and care

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There is currently a recognition of the first-personal knowledge of people with lived experience of schizophrenia as an epistemic privilege that can influence and improve the quality of research and care. This review aims to identify and better understand the actual challenges and perspectives of this field.

RECENT FINDINGS

Two main themes are present in the recent literature: first, the direct involvement of persons with lived experience of psychosis both in research (first person accounts, lived experience and participatory research) and care with the development of new professional positions such as expert patients and peer workers ; second, the field of research on lived experience of psychosis based mostly on phenomenological psychiatry and qualitative research.

SUMMARY

Both involvement of persons with lived experience in care and research, and research on lived experience of psychosis have direct impact and outcomes such as leading to a better understanding of psychotic phenomena and to reduced stigma and providing more person-centered and holistic care and better social support. This review also highlights the conceptual and ethical challenges to overcome, especially the risk of tokenism.

Cultural Influences on Mental Health Provision in the Caribbean: How Do Contemporary Perceptions and Beliefs About Persons With Mental Illness Inform Workforce Transformation?

INTRODUCTION

Mental illness is a global phenomenon in society, including trained health professionals, often responding to people with mental illness based on perceptions and beliefs. The research examined "contemporary perceptions and beliefs about mental illness held by stakeholders" attending a mental health symposium in Trinidad.

METHODS

Data were collected using a 43-item questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS Version 22. Overall, 84 attendees working directly or experienced in mental health completed the survey.

RESULTS

Respondents believed mental illness should be treated within local community settings. Participants who were more comfortable sharing their mental health diagnosis with friends were more likely to share with others, including their employers. There was a relationship between perception of the superstitious causes of mental illness and its effects on healing.

DISCUSSION

Qualifications and experience in mental health do not reduce stigma associated with mental illness which has implications for addressing mental health literacy among health professionals.