Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of adults under involuntary hospitalization in the acute mental health services of Cyprus

Abstract

Background: The clinical and demographic characteristics of the adults involuntary admitted for compulsory mental health treatment have not been reported adequately. Purpose: Investigation of the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the adults who are involuntary hospitalized in the acute Mental Health Services in Cyprus. Method: A descriptive correlation study with cross-sectional comparisons was applied. Data collection was performed from December 2016 to February 2018 via a structured questionnaire including demographic and clinical variables. Each questionnaire was accompanied by a consent form, which was assigned by the participants before their discharge. Results: The sample consisted of 406 people, of whom 262 were male and 144 were female. The vast majority were Greek-Cypriots. The largest age groups were 45-65 years (33%) and 25-34 years (31.8%), respectively. 172 of the participants reported current substance use and 117 of them fulfilled the criteria of dual diagnosis. The most frequent diagnosis was schizophrenia or a relevant psychotic disorder (86.4%). The main cause of relapse and subsequent admission was medication non-adherence along with lack of insight (57.1%). 52% of the sample had been previously involuntary hospitalized in a psychiatric hospital. Conclusions: A high percentage of involuntary hospitalizations was noted due to non-adherence to pharmacotherapy. Re-evaluation of the effectiveness of relevant community interventions is suggested, as well as implementation of structured educational programs on therapy adherence during hospitalization. The goal is the limitation of the frequency of relapse while being in the community. Also, education on substance use prevention is also suggested for clinical populations.

Socio-Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Adults With Psychotic Symptomatology Under Involuntary Admission and Readmission for Compulsory Treatment in a Referral Psychiatric Hospital in Cyprus

“…Part of the data presented in this manuscript have been released as a pre-print at Research Square ( 60 ).…”