Family support for persons with schizophrenia after physical restraint and confinement

Abstract

Objective

Family support is a substantial aspect in the convalescence process of people with schizophrenia. The study aims to explore the family support of persons in the wake of physical restraint or confinement.

Method

The study used a qualitative study with phenomenology approach. Purposive sampling technique was used to select participants who were diagnosed of schizophrenia and have experienced physical restraint and confinement. The data was obtained through in-depth interviews with ten participants. The data were analyzed by using the Colaizzi's method.

Results

The family as the source of support is needed by the patient daily to complete their healing process. The study identified three themes, namely: (1) supervision of taking medication, (2) providing continuity and optimized care, and (3) empowering people with schizophrenia.

Conclusions

Family support is very important for people with severe mental illness. Psychiatric nurses need to assist families to scale up support for people with schizophrenia.