Experiences of Stigma against Persons with Schizophrenia in the Okaikoi South District

Abstract

Background: Mental illnesses attract a lot of stigma. However schizophrenia is one of the most stigmatized mental conditions because of its perceived dangerousness and unpredictability. The stigma experienced by persons with schizophrenia can hinder help-seeking behaviours further exacerbating their condition. It is therefore important to find out the experiences of stigma among the family and persons with schizophrenia in order to come up with intervention to stop such behaviours in public. This study sought to explore experiences of stigma against family. caregivers and persons with schizophrenia. Methods: This study employed a qualitative research approach using two focus group discussions (N= 18) among schizophrenic patient and eight (8) in-depth patients (3 among patients and 5 among patients relatives). Purposive sampling technique was used to select the stud} participants. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim after which manual thematic content analysis was used to generate themes. Various themes on perceived causes of sch izophrenia and experiences of stigma among the study population were explored. Result: The study revealed that schizophrenia is caused by supernatural forces. f1 was the view of participants that. people get schizophrenia because of curses, evil machinations and demonic attacks and such people are afraid of people who have the condition and their family members. The study further revealed that people with schizophrenia and their relatives are stigmatised at the community. Due to these stigmatizing attitude, family members and persons with schizophrenia avoided social gatherings like funerals. wedding and naming ceremonies. The famil) members also revealed the burden they suffer due to the caregiving role. Conclusion: Schizophrenia is believed to be spiritual mental health condition and stigmatization of patients with schizophrenia and their relatives was common in the community. As a result of the stigma both patients and relative stay away from public gathering and resort to spiritual healers for health care.