Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/55139
Title: The experience of female patients suffering from depression and substance abuse
Authors: Cassar, Josephine
Keywords: Depression in women
Women -- Mental health
Substance abuse -- Treatment
Psychiatric hospitals
Dual diagnosis
Issue Date: 2008
Citation: Cassar, J. (2008). The experience of female patients suffering from depression and substance abuse (Bachelor's dissertation).
Abstract: This study focused on the characteristics of female clients suffering from depression and substance abuse. The aim of the study was to understand the lived experience of these female clients by eliciting their personal perceptions. The objectives were to understand the impact of depression and substance abuse on these patients and to explore the extent of the changes in their lives due to the disease. A qualitative design was used for this study with semi-structured interviews as the research tool. Six individuals suffering from the phenomenon of "Dual Diagnosis" were recruited by convenience sampling. The study was conducted in a psychiatric ward in a mental health hospital. Three of the female clients interviewed were suffering from alcohol abuse and the other three from drug abuse. The study also focused on accounts of the circumstances leading to depression which was associated with stressful life-events and accompanied by symptoms of anxiety and agitation. The data was analysed using thematic analysis which involved the search for themes. Six major themes were identified: family factors and environmental experiences; abandonment; self harm and suicidal attempts; maternal caring aspect; effective treatment programme and finally, outlook towards the future. The study identified also different levels of "depressive pain" and the associated thoughts, feelings and behaviours of these female clients. By shoving light on their depressive pain and their experiences, more knowledge was highlighted on the specific care that they required. There should be a change in the attitude of society towards these people in order for them to be treated as human beings with all the dignity they deserve.
Description: B.SC.(HONS)MENTAL HEALTH NURSING
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/55139
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - FacHSc - 2008
Dissertations - FacHScMH - 2008

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