Family Practice Vol. 21, No. 2, 204-212
Family Practice Vol. 21, No. 2 © Oxford University Press 2004, all rights reserved.
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Patients' experiences of medication for anxiety and depression: effects on working life
Institute of Work, Health and Organisations, University of Nottingham, William Lee Buildings 8, Nottingham Science and Technology Park, University Boulevard, Nottingham NG7 2RQ and a Health and Safety Ergonomics Unit, Department of Human Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK
E-mail: Cheryl.Haslam{at}nottingham.ac.uk
Background and objectives. The prevalence of depression and anxiety has increased in recent years, leading to extensive use of medication. This study used a qualitative, in-depth approach to investigate patients' experiences of taking medication prescribed for these conditions. Sampling from a range of occupational sectors, the research explored the impact of medication on working life.
Methods. The research involved nine focus groups with sufferers of anxiety and depression to investigate the personal experiences of mental ill-health and the impact of psychotropic drugs. A further three focus groups were conducted with staff in human resources, personnel, occupational health, and health and safety departments, to explore the organizational perspectives on psychotropic medication in the workplace. Focus groups were held at Loughborough University and at workplace settings throughout the UK. Results were presented to an expert panel (comprising practitioners and researchers in health care and occupational health) to consider implications for practice.
Results. Physical symptoms associated with anxiety and depression included: nausea, headaches, dizziness, trembling, insomnia and lack of energy. Psychological symptoms involved: poor concentration, emotional distress and lack of motivation. Non-compliance was widespread due to side effects, lack of improvement in symptoms or because medication made patients feel worse. Patients did not feel well informed about their medication. People took less than the prescribed amount or stopped taking the medication. Concerns about dependency caused patients to cease medication prematurely.
Conclusion. Patients felt ill informed about their medication and would have welcomed more information. Drawing on the results, the authors outline areas for improvement in the care of patients with anxiety and depression.
Keywords. Anxiety, compliance, depression, patient information, psychotropic medication.
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