Psychiatric Nonadherence : A Solutions-Based Approach

This book explores medical nonadherence to treatment and management of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan.

Nonadherence to behavioral health recommendations is a pervasive threat to health and wellbeing. Nearly half of all people suffer the consequences of misunderstanding, forgetting or ignoring professional medical advice. No intervention strategy has yet been developed to solve nonadherence of all patients.  Research studies have concluded that successful efforts to enhance adherence rely on a number of important elements. First and foremost, is nurturing a trusting relationship between the patient and the clinician.  Following that is making sure that the patient fully understands the nature of their illness and what is being recommended.  Effective and clear communication is critical between the mental health professionals and their patients. Individuals must be encouraged and permitted to share the personal narrative of the story of their illness.  When the health professional understands who the patient is on a deeper level as an individual, then adherence may be improved.  It is imperative that the mental health clinicians take into account the individual patient’s cultural, social and community context, as well as their beliefs and support systems.  An atmosphere of shared collaboration and mutual respect will enhance open communication and promotion of adherence and positive outcomes.

 Despite this fact, physicians struggle with effective communication and adherence to treatment plans because certain situations complicate this relationship.  Children, for example, may not understand the gravity of the situation.  Parents and older adults may find themselves in denial.  Families struggling with substance misuse, suicide and self-harm issues are too embarrassed to admit their feelings.  Despite these common dilemmas, little is written to help guide practitioners through these conundrums, thereby stymying their ability to effectively treat their patients.

This book explores a variety of different mental health problems that impact children, adolescents, transitional age youth, adults and older adults. A description of the most up to date strategies to solve the dilemma of nonadherence to medical care is provided. Technology has provided health care with new and innovative means of tracking, interfacing and gathering individual data and facilitating improved medical models.  The contributors will represent a wide range of internationally recognized experts in their areas of sub-specialization.