“It’s Like I’m Living with a Pharmacy”: Experiences of Individuals with Severe Mental Disorders Regarding Psychotropic Medication Polypharmacy

This study aimed to explore the perspectives and experiences of individuals with severe mental disorders regarding psychotropic medication polypharmacy. This study is designed as a descriptive qualitative research involving a sample of 28 individuals with severe mental disorders receiving follow-up care at an adult mental health outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Türkiye between March and December 2024, all of whom were using multiple medications. The inclusion criteria were being an adult diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder for at least 12 months and using at least two psychotropic medications for the past two months. Data were collected through in-depth, face-to-face individual interviews. The study data were categorized into six main themes: (1) Disrupted Daily Life Rhythm, (2) Living with Side Effects, (3) Polypharmacy and Illness Perception, (4) Chemicals and Identity, (5) Sustaining Well-being Through Support, and (6) Struggling with the System: Challenges of Medical Procedures. The findings indicate that individuals with severe mental disorders experience significant disruptions in their daily functioning due to polypharmacy, rely on familial and social support to maintain medication adherence, face challenges in complying with healthcare system procedures, and express concerns regarding the psychological and physical effects of psychotropic medications.