Mental health professionals' experiences of clients coping with bipolar disorder

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate Mental Health Professionals' Experiences of Clients Coping with Bipolar Disorder. My motivation for carrying out this study was to obtain an in-depth understanding of the professionals' experiences of clients' coping. A qualitative approach was deemed appropriate due to its focus on participants' experiences and cognitive appraisals regarding the subject. Interpretative Phenomenological Approach was the methodology of choice as the aim of the research was to garner an in-depth understanding of participants' lived experiences. In-depth interviews were conducted with professionals' from 5 disciplines who were recruited from Mater Dei Hospital namely a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, nurse and general practitioner. Data gathered was recorded, transcribed and analysed through thematic analysis. The results from this research revealed two important factors; one being that a support system in coping with bipolar disorder is necessary; however, interviews showed that Malta does not have any support groups for patients suffering from bipolar disorder. Another two results which surprised me were that of stigma related to people with bipolar disorder in Malta, and the multidisciplinary approach to treating the disorder. The cultural context that came out through the research reflected that a lot of people in Malta still fall victim to stigma with regards to mental health. The multidisciplinary approach is an area we are already trying to implement in the treatment of people with mental health problems.