Understanding the phenomenon of rehospitalization due to mental disorder: A qualitative perspective

Abstract Background and aims Rehospitalization is a complex phenomenon that psychiatric patients and their families cope with. A significant percentage of psychiatric patients require recurrent hospital management, which presents a challenge for the health system and disrupts the lives of patients and their families. This research aimed to deepen the understanding of the phenomenon of psychiatric rehospitalization from a qualitative perspective. Methods Two focus groups were formed, consisting of psychiatric patients with a history of psychiatric rehospitalization and their relatives. The data collected were analyzed according to the principles of grounded theory and symbolic interactionism. Results Early adverse experiences, stressful events, severity of symptoms, challenges in accessing timely medical care, and family burden were identified as factors related to psychiatric rehospitalizations. Rehospitalization was associated with feelings of failure, stigma, and frustration, but it was also valued positively as a place of solace, relief, and recovery. Patients and their families particularly appreciated psychosocial interventions. Conclusions The own patient experience and thinking add to the understanding of the reasons involved in recurrent seeking of psychiatric hospitalization. It also provides guide to improve the attention and treatment offered to patients during the hospitalization process.