title: Wanting to be heard: mental health consumers' experiences of information about medication.
abstract: The complexities accompanying the prescription of antipsychotic medication for people experiencing a mental illness have been extensively documented in the literature. The views and experiences of consumers of mental health services, however, are almost entirely absent. This paper describes the findings of a qualitative study undertaken to examine the experiences of consumers, specifically in relation to education and decision making with regards to medication. The findings from a focus group conducted with consumers (n = 9) revealed an overall dissatisfaction with information provided and the opportunity to participate in decision making. Data analysis revealed four major themes: information to consumers; acknowledgement and recognition of consumers; roles of health professionals; and the experience of wellness and adherence. The findings suggest the need for significant change if the goals of the Third National Mental Health Plan are to be realized.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Psychiatric Nursing Research and Practice, University of Melbourne, Carlton 3010, Victoria, Australia. bhappell@unimelb.edu.au
authors.forename: Brenda
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Happell
authors.forename: Elizabeth
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Manias
authors.forename: Cath
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Roper
mesh_terms: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010358:Patient Participation; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D014739:Victoria
chemical_list: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents