The importance of feeling remembered during the Covid-19 crisis–A qualitative study of experiences among patients with personality disorders

Abstract

Treatment irregularity may complicate therapy for patients with personality disorders (PD). In Norway, Covid-19 restrictions led to a shutdown of outpatient mental health services from March 12th, 2020. The article aims to investigate how patients with PD experience Covid-19 related changes in their everyday life and treatment. A multi-center survey was performed in June–October 2020 at 12 PD treatment units. Thematic analysis was chosen for data-analysis of the open questions. Data-analysis resulted in two meta-themes: 1) Treatment changes as good enough emergency solutions–continuing personal change and care during the crisis, and 2) An overwhelming experience of unpredictability in everyday life and treatment–a feeling of being lost and lonely. The two meta-themes encompass themes organized to show diverse experiences of changes in social contact, treatment adjustments, and mental health problems. The two meta-themes could be understood along a dimension of “safety–vulnerability” more than separated experiences. The experiences are discussed concerning technological, social, and individual resources and vulnerability. The therapist should explore the patient’s experience of the treatment adjustments several times through the treatment process during a crisis to increase safety and continue treatment.