Experiences of Persons Living with Schizophrenia: A Study in the Cape Coast Metropolis

Abstract

Living with a chronic mental condition such as schizophrenia comes with its own challenges. Yet, there is little data on the experiences of individuals living with schizophrenia in Ghana. This study explored the experiences of persons living with schizophrenia in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Ghana. The study adopted a descriptive phenomenological study design using purposive sampling technique to select nine (9) persons living with schizophrenia for the study. Data collection was done through face-to-face audio-recorded in-depth interviews, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s (1978) descriptive phenomenological analysis approach. The study revealed that participants maintained their Activities of Daily Living as long as they were in their lucid interval. Participants revealed that stigmatization, and lack of job opportunities were major challenges they faced. Hence, interventions that seek to promote maximum support, reduce stigmatization and promote medication adherence should be explored and promoted.