A qualitative analysis of a psychoeducational video resource to reduce stigma for those who hear voices: The compassion focused therapy ‘Stuart video’

OBJECTIVES: Societal stigma towards individuals who hear voices (auditory verbal hallucinations) is a significant barrier to help-seeking and has been resistant to traditional anti-stigma campaigns. In this context, Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) presents a promising alternative approach. DESIGN: This qualitative study explores the views of people with lived experience of hearing voices regarding a 5-min psychoeducational video, 'Compassion for Voices: A Tale of Courage and Hope', which was designed as a therapeutic and destigmatising resource. METHOD: An online survey method was used to recruit participants who identified as having a lived experience of hearing voices. Thematic analysis was conducted on open-ended survey responses from 20 participants who identified as having a lived experience of hearing voices. The survey followed participants' viewing of the 'Compassion for Voices' video, which was co-produced with individuals who have a lived experience of voice hearing. RESULTS: The analysis revealed three key themes: 'A Sense of Shared Identity to Stuart's Journey', 'CFT approach desired, but recognition of fears, blocks and resistances to developing compassion' and 'Stuart's Psychoeducation Video as Validating, Destigmatising and Hopeful'. Participants largely found the video to be an accurate and validating representation of their experiences. The video was also perceived as a possible resource that could be used to address public stigma. CONCLUSION: While preliminary, these findings suggest the video is a useful psychoeducational tool, has the potential to reduce stigma and is viewed as an acceptable intervention. Further research is needed to explore its long-term impact and use in clinical settings.