Medication adherence among patients with psychiatric illness: Role of internalized stigma
Yasaswi Yaragandla, Madhavi Kodali, Therissa Benerji GantaABSTRACT
Background:
Adherence to prescribed psychotropic medications is vital for effective management of psychiatric illnesses. Despite this, medication non-adherence (MNA) remains a significant barrier to achieving optimal outcomes, often resulting in relapse, poor prognosis, and increased health care costs. Among various influencing factors, internalized stigma is increasingly recognized as a critical component that affects medication adherence.
Aims:
To assess medication adherence among patients with psychiatric illnesses, study their attitudes toward psychotropic medication, examine the extent of internalized stigma, and identify key factors influencing adherence.
Methods:
A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the psychiatry outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. A total of 100 adult psychiatric outpatients, diagnosed as per DSM-5 criteria and currently receiving psychotropic medication, were included. Sociodemographic profile and illness-related variables were collected. Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8), Drug Attitude Inventory (DAI-10), and Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) Scales were applied to assess medication adherence, drug attitude, and stigma, respectively. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used for statistical analysis.
Results:
Most participants showed medium adherence (74%), positive drug attitude (91%), and low internalized stigma (82%). Common barriers to adherence were insufficient illness-related knowledge (46.43%) and forgetfulness (33.39%). A significant association was found between higher internalized stigma and lower medication adherence (
Conclusion:
Internalized stigma significantly affects medication adherence. Enhancing awareness and reducing stigma may improve medication adherence and treatment outcomes.