Understanding attitudes towards psychiatric medications: a comparative study of patients, healthcare professionals, and general population perspectives.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, with the increasing challenges in living conditions, there has been a rise in individuals seeking psychiatric support. This situation may lead to changes in attitudes and perceptions towards psychiatric medication treatments.

AIM: This study aims to examine the attitudes of stable psychiatric patients, healthcare professionals, and the general population toward psychiatric medication treatments.

METHOD: The study included 311 stable psychiatric patients, 200 healthcare professionals, and 274 participants from the general population. Participants were administered a data form that questioned sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, the Drug Attitude Inventory-10, and the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The study reveals significant differences in attitudes towards medication among stable psychiatric patients, non-psychiatric healthcare professionals, and the general population. Stable psychiatric patients tend to have a stronger belief in the positive effects of medication and are more likely to internalize medications in their daily lives. However, this group experiences side effects more intensely compared to other groups. Healthcare professionals maintain a balanced stance regarding the benefits and side effects of medications, while the general population exhibits a more negative attitude towards medications and expresses greater concern about the addictive potential of these drugs.

CONCLUSION

Considering these differences may contribute to more effective management of treatment processes and improve attitudes toward medications.