Abstract
This qualitative study aims to clarify patterns of care-seeking behavior among people with schizophrenia receiving continuous medical care at a psychiatric day-care facility. Through this analysis, we hope to devise means of effectively supporting patients with delusions and cognitive impairment, in order to maintain their well-being while they reside in community without discontinuing medical treatment. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and participant observation at a psychiatric day-care facility. Content analysis showed three main themes in patients' care-seeking behaviors (1) being able to live without serious psychotic symptoms, with the help of medication and support from the treatment team; (2) attending daycare and following a healthy lifestyle; (3) a desire for a healthy relationship with other people and one's disease. They have difficulties in medication compliance, explaining their conditions to the doctor, commuting to the day-care facility, and maintaining a good relationship with other daycare patients. Thus, they require support so that they continue receiving medical treatment and attend daycare. The results of this study suggest that life satisfaction plays a key role in preventing persons with schizophrenia from getting engrossed in their delusions. Correlations were observed among life satisfaction, valuing ethics and group well-being over competitiveness and decisions based on delusional thinking, and cordial and supportive relationships that protect such patients from feeling alienated and traumatized.
