scholarly journals The Experience of Insomnia in Patients With Schizophrenic Disorder: A Qualitative Study

2022 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Batalla-Martín ◽  
Maria-Antonia Martorell-Poveda ◽  
Angel Belzunegui-Eraso ◽  
Eva Miralles Garijo ◽  
Ana Del-Cuerpo Serratosa ◽  
...  

BackgroundInsomnia is a health problem that particularly affects people with schizophrenia. Its repercussions go beyond the disorder itself and affect many areas of life. The aim of the present study is to explore the clinical symptoms and consequences of insomnia in patients diagnosed with schizophrenic disorder and the perceptions of these patients regarding the care they receive.MethodsThe study takes a qualitative approach and uses semi-structured interviews to conduct a descriptive and interpretive analysis of 3 clinically different clusters of patients. These 3 clusters have been defined by using two-step cluster analysis based on the results of the ISI (Insomnia Severity Index) and EQ-5D scales (EuroQol-5D) and the presence of certain diagnostic symptoms in a sample of 170 patients. The final sample was 31 subjects. The analysis was based on a hermeneutic analysis of the patients' narratives regarding their experiences of insomnia.ResultsThe patients' narratives show differences in the intensity and experience of insomnia depending on the severity, as well as its impact on their quality of life. Insomnia has a huge emotional impact. Participants describe ruminations and obsessive thoughts as a key factor hindering falling asleep. Some of the everyday actions they perform encourage the chronicity of insomnia. The desired health response must include interventions that are effective, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, and powerful, such as pharmacological solutions. Psychoeducation and advice on sleep hygiene are highly valued tools as preventive strategies.ConclusionsTo know the experience of users gives us a more comprehensive understanding of insomnia complexities and brings some new intervention strategies in patients with mental disorders. It is important that health professionals intervene preventively to stop the disorder from becoming chronic.

2017 ◽  
Vol 59 (3) ◽  
pp. 45-51
Author(s):  
Lucille Malan ◽  
Nokuthula Dlamini

Insomnia disorder is defined as difficulty in falling asleep, maintaining sleep, and early morning awakenings. Common daytime consequences experienced are fatigue, mood instability and impaired concentration. In chronic insomnia these symptoms persist over a period of at least three months. Chronic insomnia can also be a symptom of a variety of disorders. The pathophysiology of insomnia is theorised as a disorder of nocturnal and daytime hyper-arousal as a result of increased somatic, cortical and cognitive activation. The causes of insomnia can be categorized into situational, medical, psychiatric and pharmacologically-induced. To diagnose insomnia, it is required to evaluate the daytime and nocturnal symptoms, as well as psychiatric and medical history. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 Criteria (DSM-5) also provides guidelines and criteria to be followed when diagnosing insomnia disorder. Goals of treatment for insomnia disorder are to correct the underlying sleep complaint and this, together with insomnia symptoms, their severity and duration, as well as co-morbid disorders will determine the choice of treatment. In the majority of patients, insomnia can be treated without pharmacological therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy is considered first-line therapy for all patients with insomnia. The most common pharmacological insomnia treatments include benzodiazepines and benzodiazepines receptor agonists. To avoid tolerance and dependence, these hypnotics are recommended to be used at the lowest possible dose, intermittently and for the shortest duration possible. A combination of cognitive behavioural therapy and pharmacological treatment options is recommended for chronic insomnia.


2016 ◽  
Vol 45 (1) ◽  
pp. 46-57 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lydia R. M. French ◽  
Laura Thomas ◽  
John Campbell ◽  
Willem Kuyken ◽  
Glyn Lewis ◽  
...  

Background: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) aims to teach people skills to help them self-manage their depression. Trial evidence shows that CBT is an effective treatment for depression and individuals may experience benefits long-term. However, there is little research about individuals’ continued use of CBT skills once treatment has finished. Aims: To explore whether individuals who had attended at least 12 sessions of CBT continued to use and value the CBT skills they had learnt during therapy. Method: Semi-structured interviews were held with participants from the CoBalT trial who had received CBT, approximately 4 years earlier. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. Results: 20 participants were interviewed. Analysis of the interviews suggested that individuals who viewed CBT as a learning process, at the time of treatment, recalled and used specific skills to manage their depression once treatment had finished. In contrast, individuals who viewed CBT only as an opportunity to talk about their problems did not appear to utilize any of the CBT skills they had been taught and reported struggling to manage their depression once treatment had ended. Conclusions: Our findings suggest individuals may value and use CBT skills if they engage with CBT as a learning opportunity at the time of treatment. Our findings underline the importance of the educational model in CBT and the need to emphasize this to individuals receiving treatment.


2018 ◽  
Vol 68 (674) ◽  
pp. e654-e662 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alice Sibelli ◽  
Rona Moss-Morris ◽  
Trudie Chalder ◽  
Felicity L Bishop ◽  
Sula Windgassen ◽  
...  

BackgroundPrevious studies have identified issues with the doctor–patient relationship in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that negatively impact symptom management. Despite this, little research has explored interactions between GPs and patients with refractory IBS. National guidelines suggest cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as a treatment option for refractory symptoms.AimTo explore perceptions of interactions with GPs in individuals with refractory IBS after receiving CBT for IBS or treatment as usual (TAU).Design and settingThis qualitative study was embedded within a trial assessing CBT in refractory IBS. Fifty-two participants took part in semi-structured interviews post-treatment in UK primary and secondary care.MethodInductive and/or data-driven thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes in the interview data.ResultsTwo key themes were identified: perceived paucity of GPs’ IBS knowledge and lack of empathy from GPs, but with acknowledgement that this has improved in recent years. These perceptions were described through three main stages of care: reaching a ‘last-resort diagnosis’; searching for the right treatment through a trial-and-error process, which lacked patient involvement; and unsatisfactory long-term management. Only CBT participants reported a shared responsibility with their doctors concerning symptom management and an intention to reduce health-seeking behaviour.ConclusionIn this refractory IBS group, specific doctor–patient communication issues were identified. Increased explanation of the process of reaching a positive diagnosis, more involvement of patients in treatment options (including a realistic appraisal of potential benefit), and further validation of symptoms could help. This study supports a role for CBT-based IBS self-management programmes to help address these areas and a suggestion that earlier access to these programmes may be beneficial.


2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jenny Haycock ◽  
Nicole Grivell ◽  
Anne Redman ◽  
Bandana Saini ◽  
Andrew Vakulin ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Chronic insomnia is a highly prevalent disorder, with ten to thirty percent of Australian adults reporting chronic difficulties falling asleep and/or staying asleep such that it causes significant daytime impairment. Current Australian general practice guidelines recommend cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi) as first line treatment for insomnia, however research suggests that most general practice consultations for insomnia result in a prescription for hypnotic or sedative medicines. Although the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms of insomnia is often general practice, little is known about the current role, experiences and capacity of Australian general practitioners to manage insomnia. This study aimed to address that gap by exploring the attitudes and opinions of general practitioners regarding insomnia management, to inform the development and implementation of new models of best practice insomnia care within general practice. Methods A descriptive, pragmatic qualitative study. Purposive sampling was used to recruit practising Australian general practitioners, varying in age, years of experience and geographic location. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data analysed using thematic analysis.  Results Twenty-eight general practitioners participated in the study. Three major themes were identified: 1) Responsibility for insomnia care; 2) Complexities in managing insomnia; and 3) Navigating treatment pathways. Whilst general practitioners readily accepted responsibility for the management of insomnia, provision of care was often demanding and difficult within the funding and time constraints of general practice. Patients presenting with comorbid mental health conditions and insomnia, and decision-making regarding long-term use of benzodiazepines presented challenges for general practitioners. Whilst general practitioners confidently provided sleep hygiene education to patients, their knowledge and experience of CBTi, and access and understanding of specialised referral pathways for insomnia was limited.  Conclusions General practitioners report that whilst assessing and managing insomnia can be demanding, it is an integral part of general practice. Insomnia presents complexities for general practitioners. Greater clarity about funding options, targeted education about effective insomnia treatments, and referral pathways to specialist services, such as benzodiazepine withdrawal support and psychologists, would benefit insomnia management within general practice.


2015 ◽  
Vol 206 (2) ◽  
pp. 122-127 ◽  
Author(s):  
Caitlin Notley ◽  
Rose Christopher ◽  
Joanne Hodgekins ◽  
Rory Byrne ◽  
Paul French ◽  
...  

BackgroundThe PRODIGY trial (Prevention of long term social disability amongst young people with emerging psychological difficulties, ISRCTN47998710) is a pilot trial of social recovery cognitive–behavioural therapy (SRCBT).AimsThe PRODIGY qualitative substudy aimed to (a) explore individual experiences of participating in the pilot randomised, controlled trial (recruitment, randomisation, assessment) and initial views of therapy, and (b) to explore perceived benefits of taking part in research v. ethical concerns and potential risks.MethodQualitative investigation using semi-structured interviews with thematic analysis.ResultsAnalysis revealed participant experiences around the key themes of acceptability, disclosure, practicalities, altruism and engagement.ConclusionsParticipants in both trial arms perceived themselves as gaining benefits from being involved in the study, above and beyond the intervention. This has implications for the design of future research and services for this client group, highlighting the importance of being flexible and an individualised approach as key engagement tools.


2019 ◽  
Vol 48 (1) ◽  
pp. 67-81
Author(s):  
Christopher D.J. Taylor ◽  
Gillian Haddock ◽  
Susan Speer ◽  
Penny E. Bee

AbstractBackground: Cognitive behavioural treatments are recommended for people with psychosis. Core beliefs regarding the self and others are a key part of the models underpinning cognitive behavioural therapy but detailed understanding of these putative beliefs in people with psychosis are limited. A greater understanding of these mechanisms is necessary to improve and refine treatments.Aims: This study utilized a qualitative approach to explore core schematic beliefs in psychosis (strongly held positive and negative beliefs about the self and others) and their relation to hallucinations and delusions.Method: Twenty individuals with psychosis participated in individual semi-structured interviews. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the interviews.Results: Four emergent themes were identified: (i) the solidity and permanency of core beliefs, (ii) the causes and development of core beliefs, (iii) a synergistic relationship between core beliefs and symptoms, and (iv) core beliefs associated with images and their influence on psychotic symptoms.Conclusions: This study provides new insights into the range and character of core beliefs in psychosis and provides important data to guide ongoing and future development of treatment approaches for psychosis.


BJPsych Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Johanna A. M. du Mortier ◽  
Henny A. D. Visser ◽  
Malinda F. R. van Geijtenbeek - de Vos van Steenwijk ◽  
Harold J. G. M. van Megen ◽  
Anton J. L. M. van Balkom

BackgroundWatching videotaped personal compulsions together with a therapist might enhance the effect of cognitive–behavioural therapy in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) but little is known about how patients experience this.AimsTo performed a qualitative study that describes how watching these videos influences motivation for treatment and whether patients report any adverse events.MethodIn this qualitative study, data were gathered in semi-structured interviews with 24 patients with OCD. The transcripts were coded by two researchers. They used a combination of open and thematic coding and discrepancies in coding were discussed.ResultsThe experience of watching videos with personal compulsions helped patients to realise that these compulsions are aberrant and irrational. Patients report increased motivation to resist their OCD and to adhere to therapy. No adverse events were reported.ConclusionsVideos with personal compulsions create more awareness in patients with OCD that compulsions are irrational, leading to enhanced motivation for treatment.Declaration of interestNone.


2018 ◽  
Vol 11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lumka Tutani ◽  
Clare Eldred ◽  
Catherine Sykes

AbstractWithin IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is offered to all clients regardless of gender, religion, culture and language. Hence, the demand for working with interpreters to facilitate communication during therapy in IAPT has increased. This study explored the experience of therapists working with interpreters to facilitate communication in psychological therapies with clients with mild to moderate anxiety and depression including those with co-morbid physical health problems. Thirteen participants, including six CBT therapists and seven Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWPs) working in an NHS IAPT service, were interviewed. A qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006), was implemented. The following four major themes were identified from the participants’ accounts: negotiating a three-way communication, difficulties in expressing empathy, a lack of shared understanding and working creatively with interpreters. During this collaborative working new understandings of engaging emerged leading participants to view this work as possible.


2021 ◽  
Vol 14 ◽  
Author(s):  
Terje Thesen ◽  
Egil Jonsbu ◽  
Egil W. Martinsen ◽  
Joseph A. Himle ◽  
Frode Thorup ◽  
...  

Abstract Nearly half of patients with non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP) experience significant complaints after a negative cardiac evaluation, at considerable costs for society. Due to the lack of treatment capacity and low interest for psychological treatment among patients with somatic complaints, only a minority receive effective treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and usefulness of internet-assisted cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT), including encouragement of physical activity for this condition. Ten patients with NCCP received a six-session I-CBT intervention with minimal support from a therapist. Questionnaires assessing cardiac anxiety, fear of bodily sensations, depression, interpretation of symptoms, frequency of chest pain and impact of chest pain symptoms were collected at baseline, post-treatment and at 3-month follow-up. Semi-structured interviews employing a phenomenological hermeneutic approach assessed the participants’ experience of the intervention. Quantitative results showed clear improvements in several measures both at end of treatment and at 3-month follow-up. The retention rate was 100% and client satisfaction was high. The intervention was feasible to implement in a cardiac setting. This setting made it easier for patients to accept a psychological approach. Qualitative interviews revealed that the participants felt respected and taken care of, and they obtained a better understanding of their chest pain and how to cope with it. This pilot study yielded promising results regarding feasibility, clinical effect and patient satisfaction from a brief I-CBT intervention for NCCP in a cardiac setting. These results indicate that a randomized controlled trial with a larger sample size is warranted. Key learning aims (1) Feasibility of internet-assisted cognitive behavioural therapy (I-CBT) for non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP). (2) How NCCP patients experience I-CBT. (3) Possible effects of I-CBT. (4) How I-CBT can be delivered at the Cardiac Department.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jenny Haycock ◽  
Nicole Grivell ◽  
Anne Redman ◽  
Bandana Saini ◽  
Andrew Vakulin ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Chronic insomnia is a highly prevalent disorder, with ten to thirty percent of Australian adults reporting chronic difficulties falling asleep and/or staying asleep such that it causes significant daytime impairment. Current Australian general practice guidelines recommend Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBTi) as first line treatment for insomnia however, research suggests that most general practice consultations for insomnia result in a prescription for hypnotic or sedative medicines. Although the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms of insomnia is often general practice, little is known about the current role, experiences and capacity of Australian general practitioners to manage insomnia. This study aimed to address that gap by exploring the attitudes and opinions of general practitioners regarding insomnia management, to inform the development and implementation of new models of best practice insomnia care within general practice. Methods A descriptive, pragmatic qualitative study. Purposive sampling was used to recruit practising Australian general practitioners, varying in age, years of experience and geographic location. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data analysed using Thematic Analysis. Results Twenty-eight general practitioners participated in the study. Three major themes were identified: 1) Responsibility for insomnia care; 2) Complexities in managing insomnia; and 3) Navigating treatment pathways. Whilst general practitioners readily accepted responsibility for the management of insomnia, provision of care was often demanding and difficult within the funding and time constraints of general practice. Patients presenting with comorbid mental health conditions and insomnia, and decision-making regarding long-term use of benzodiazepines presented challenges for general practitioners. Whilst general practitioners confidently provided sleep hygiene education to patients, their knowledge and experience of CBTi, and access and understanding of specialised referral pathways for insomnia was limited. Conclusions General practitioners report that whilst assessing and managing insomnia can be demanding, it is an integral part of general practice. Insomnia presents complexities for general practitioners, and greater clarity about funding options, targeted education about effective insomnia treatments, and referral pathways to specialist services would benefit insomnia management within general practice.


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