'It's just the way I am': life with schizophrenia.
In this paper we focus on data generated from an in-depth interview with one participant of a larger study, and his voice in the participatory action research groups with other residents of a Supported Residential Facility. Bill describes what life is like when living with schizophrenia, being on anti-psychotic drugs and residing in boarding house accommodation. The aim of telling Bill's story is to reveal the burden of living with this mental illness and how it shapes every aspect of his world. We note that his physical health is neglected, and we conclude that residents such as Bill need assistance in health promotion, social engagement and navigating community and acute health services. Bill's story may contribute to sensitising health care professionals toward provision of holistic care and promote collaborative approaches focused toward addressing the needs identified for residents of boarding houses.
Kralik
Debbie
D
University of South Australia, Royal District Nursing Service (SA Inc.), Glenside. kralik@bigpond.com
Koch
Tina
T
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000739:Anecdotes as Topic; D001294:Attitude to Health; D016352:Group Homes; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011788:Quality of Life; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support; D013240:Stereotyping