The lifeworld of the chronic mentally ill: Analysis of 40 written personal accounts

Author(s): Yonge, O.

Journal/Book: Archives Psychiatr Nurs. 1997; 11: Independence Square West, Curtis Center, Ste 300, Philadelphia, PA 19106-3399. W B Saunders Co. 314-324.

Abstract: In this study, chronicity in mental illness has been investigated as it is lived rather than how it might be conceptualized, Published first-hand accounts have provided the mechanism for direct access in coming to know the life of persons, their circumstances, and the meanings they associate with a life of persistent and enduring mental illness, These are unique and particular human experiences, and there are no empirical generalizations or law-like statements that can give such an understanding, Therefore the disclosure of meaning was sought through a hermeneutic-phenomenologic process. Four lifeworld existentials provide the framework for a combined description and interpretation of what it means to ''live'' chronic mental illness, The article concludes with a brief discussion of some implications for nursing practice, and commentary is made on the relevance of such insights to health care providers in both acute and community care settings.

Note: Article Hayne Y, Univ Alberta, Fac Nursing, 3RD Floor, Clin Sci Bldg, Edmonton, AB T3G 3J2, CANADA

Keyword(s): 1ST-PERSON ACCOUNT; SCHIZOPHRENIA; EXPERIENCE; NIGHTMARE; DISORDER; ILLNESS; REALITY; LABEL

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