Significant Events Experienced by Psychiatric Patients With Personality Disorders in Inpatient Settings: A Qualitative Study and Implications for Clinical Management.

Abstract

Background: Personality disorders are complex mental disorders characterized by interpersonal difficulties and are notoriously difficult to treat. Inpatient treatment offers patients the opportunity to establish therapeutic alliances, which can help alleviate their clinical dilemmas. However, there is currently a lack of research that takes the perspective of inpatients as the main subject. This study aims to delve into the significant events experienced by inpatients with personality disorders from their own perspective and explore their significance and impact on the individuals.

Methods: Nine inpatients with personality disorders at different stages of hospitalization from a psychiatric specialty hospital were selected for semi-structured interviews. Grounded theory was used to analyze the data.

Results: In the context of hospitalization, the significant events that patients experienced mainly include the 'giving' and empowerment by therapists, the contained and holding hospital environment, supportive relationships with peer patients, and the biopsychosocial impact of medication on patient perception and therapeutic engagement.

Conclusion: Implicit 'giving' by therapists fosters empowerment and strengthens the therapeutic alliance, enhancing patient engagement and outcomes. The hospital environment offers a structured space for self-reflection and emotional recovery, while peer relationships promote growth. The combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy stabilizes patients' psychological states and improves receptivity to treatment. An integrated approach to these treatments is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.