title: [Shame, embarrassment and trouble...relatives of patients with OCD describe stigma experiences in every-day life].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  There are numerous studies on the stigma of mental illness. However, the subjective stigma experiences of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder and their relatives have, so far not been investigated.
  
  
  METHODS
  Narrative interviews with 22 family members of patients with OCD were carried out as part of a study on the burden of mental illness on the family. Experience of stigma was analysed as an aspect of subjective burden using a grounded theory approach.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Different areas of life could be described, in which stigmatization is anticipated or experienced by family members of patients with OCD. Concealing is a relevant strategy for the members in dealing with the illness.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Stigmatization can be minimized by impartially handling the illness and cooperation of patients, their relevant others and professionals.
authors.affiliation: Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie, Universität Leipzig.
authors.forename: Johanna
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Trosbach
authors.forename: Katarina
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Stengler-Wenzke
authors.forename: Matthias C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Angermeyer
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D017281:Cost of Illness; D005195:Family Relations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009771:Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / Q000523:psychology*; D011287:Prejudice; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D012752:Shame; D013240:Stereotyping