Experiences with Mental Health Services: perspectives of diagnosed people in Catalonia, Spain
Abstract
The field of mental health is marked by social exclusion, stigmatization, discrimination by society and violation of human rights; aspects that constitute significant challenges for national and international development in public health. In this phenomenological study, from the perspective of social representation, we interviewed 12 people diagnosed with a mental disorder in Catalonia, Spain, to investigate their experience with mental health services. Most experiences with health services were marked by a hierarchical model in power structures, in which the perspectives of people diagnosed were delegitimized. The legitimacy of specialized and public representations about mental health shaped the lives of the participants, as they felt voiceless and impotent, having their representations subjugated. Constructive experiences were related to being heard, cared for and understood by health professionals. By considering people diagnosed with a mental disorder, significant contributions can be made to improve the provision of comprehensive, effective and sensitive mental health care.
Keywords
Mental Health Services, Mental Disorders, Delivery of Health Care, SpainReferences
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