First experiences of patients with bipolar disorder with recording a film to show their ‘euthymic being’: a qualitative study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Title: ‘Show Yourself’: First experiences of patients with bipolar disorder with recording a film to show their ‘euthymic being’: a qualitative study. Background: In practice, it is noticed that the recovery of a patient with bipolar disorder (BD) during hospitalization is differently objectified by professionals working at an admission ward and relatives of the patient. Professionals often indicate that patients’ condition is improving while relatives notice limited improvement. This difference might be caused by a difference in perspective. Hence, a research project was started regarding the development of a film intervention. The recording of a ten-minute film by outpatients to show their ‘euthymic being’ might increase professionals’ awareness of the healthy person. Aim: The objective of this study is to examine the experiences of outpatients with BD with recording a ten-minute film to show their ‘being’ in a euthymic mood state. These results can contribute to the assessment of the feasibility of the film intervention. Methods: The design is an explorative, descriptive qualitative research, in the context of a feasibility study. Individual, open interviews were conducted. The Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen method was used to analyse those interviews. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: ‘Patient in charge’ (involvement of others, setting of the film); ‘Personal expectations’ (different expectations, information provision); ‘Creating a comfort zone’ (preparatory conversation, contact with the ambulatory nurse who supported the patient, ambiance); ‘Reflections on the experiences’ (presenting a genuine image, experience with recording, own reference framework). Conclusion: All but one participant had positive experiences with the recording process. The development of the film intervention can be continued due to the positive results. Implication of key findings: For further development, the effect of the film intervention should be investigated by performing a follow-up of patients who recorded a film.