Knowledge and Perceptions of Psychiatric Disorders: Influence on the Demand for Care
L. Azizi, O. Seyar, Z. Bencharfa, F. OmariIntroduction
Stigma associated with mental disorders remains a major public health barrier. It manifests as negative attitudes, prejudices, and discrimination that limit access to psychiatric care. Despite progress in the understanding and treatment of mental illness, many people avoid seeking help for fear of being judged, marginalized, or labeled. This situation contributes to delayed diagnosis, worsening of symptoms, and a decrease in patients’ quality of life.
Objectives
To assess how stigma influences individuals’ decisions to consult a psychiatrist. To identify social, cultural, and economic factors that reinforce or mitigate stigma. To analyze the consequences of delayed or absent treatment on patients’ clinical outcomes. To propose interventions to reduce stigma and improve access to psychiatric care.
Methods
To meet these objectives, we conducted a descriptive study that collected 102 cases at the Arrazi Psychiatric Hospital in Salé.
A structured data collection sheet was used.
Results
Sociodemographic characteristics: The majority of patients were female (66.3%). The average age in our population was between 20 and 30 years (62.4%), with a university education level (79.2%). A total of 56.5% were employed.
Perception of stigma: In our study, 65.3% of respondents believed that people with psychiatric disorders are stigmatized in society. 5.9% did not think these individuals are stigmatized, while 28.8% were unsure. In addition, 67.4% had witnessed situations where a person with a psychiatric disorder was treated unfairly. 20.8% had not witnessed such unfair treatment, while 11.8% were uncertain.
Access to psychiatric care:
28.8% experienced feelings of isolation within the family. 26.6% felt shame or embarrassment. 22.2% feared judgment from society. 20% reported a lack of financial resources. 2.2% experienced feelings of isolation within the family (duplicate response in the data).