Abstract

RASCON, María Luisa et al. Needs under crisis situations in relatives of patients with schizophrenia. Salud Ment [online]. 2014, vol.37, n.3, pp.239-246. ISSN 0185-3325.

Objetive This article presents the main crisis situations faced by the relatives of schizophrenic patients, as well as their needs in psychiatric attention at moments of crisis. Method Qualitative study. A discussion group of eight parents of patients with schizophrenia was conformed. The group sessions were recorded and transcribed to analyze the information later on. In addition, the information was complemented with individual interviews of the relatives. Results Parents emphasized three main crisis situations: 1. a first psychotic crisis, 2. family crisis facing the diagnosis and in the process of acceptance of the disease, and 3. subsequent relapses. 4. Deficiencies in the care crisis, and 5. needs of families in crisis situations are also detailed. Conclusions According to the narratives related by the relatives of the discussion group, we can conclude that it is necessary to provide information to the family, the patients and the general population, so that there is a knowledge of the main characteristics and symptoms of schizophrenia. This should be carried out with the purpose of obtaining an early detection that facilitates the treatment and prevents later crises interventions and creating a social support network in the community.

Keywords : Needs' crisis; schizophrenia; family; qualitative study.