Using Photovoice to explore patients' experiences with mental health medication: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this research is to explore and share the medication experience of those with a mental illness in order to gain understanding of the patient's medication perceptions as well as the impact of medication upon patients' lives. METHODS: Patients with a mental disorder were given cameras and asked to capture the experience of “living with my medication.” Using Photovoice methodology, participants reflected on their photos individually and in focus groups. Conceptual themes were drawn from the data. RESULTS: Five participants captured an average of 14 photos each. Self-efficacy with mental illness, mental and physical health connections, and education were the 3 most prominent themes. Aspects of medications were interwoven within these themes but were not the primary focus of the participants. DISCUSSION: Medication experiences of patients with mental illness may encompass much more than the medications themselves.