Features of subjective perception of social support by patients with endogenous mental disorders

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Introduction: Previous research shows that the role of perceived social support, defined as individuals' confidence of the availability of adequate support when needed, is considered as a protective external resource to promote better adaptation in psychiatric patients. The aim of our study was to reveal the features of patients with endogenous mental disorders regarding their ability to perceive social support. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: A total of 168 patients with schizophrenia (F.20) and 75 patients with affective disorders (F30.F.33) were involved into this study under informed consent conditions. Control group included 55 mentally healthy respondents. Perceived social support was measured using Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) by Zimet (1998). RESULTS: Results: Family, friends and significant others become main donors of social support for patients with endogenous mental disorders. Meanwhile, perceived social support in patients with schizophrenia is mostly coming from family. In patients with affective disorders, indicators of perceived social support from friends and significant others are significantly higher compared to patients with schizophrenia (P <0.001). Revealed features can be used while developing appropriate psychoeducational programs for patients with endogenous mental disorders. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: On the basis of revealed data, the key features of ability to perceive social support in patients with endogenous mental disorders, depending on the duration of the disease, were determined. It has been revealed that ability to perceive social support in patients with endogenous mental disorders decreases with prolongation of duration of the disease.