| This study used a qualitative research interview to answer the question, "What do ex-patients who have been depressed know about depression and what was their experience of their treatment?" The study was particularly focused on knowledge and experience of people who live in Luxembourg. The scope of the research project is limited due to the sample size of 10 participants. It is assumed that depressive symptoms are similar among a wide range of individuals. The review of the literature on depression revealed controversies surrounding its etiology and best-treatment practices. The goal of the study was to gain a richer understanding and insight into each individual's experience of depression, its treatment modalities, and his or her help-seeking attitudes. Research participants were invited to participate in the study through two company websites. The study used semistructured interviews and an open-coding framework in the analysis. The researcher identified four major themes: (a) description of the depression, (b) causes of depression, (c) participant experiences with treatment and, (d) coping and healing. The four subthemes that emerged were: use of medication, psychotherapy, healing from depression, and participant understanding of depression. Specific findings included the following: First, medication is the primary treatment for depression in Luxembourg. All participants were given medication without being presented with any alternatives. They were seldom warned of the limitations and side effects, and, because informed consent is not obligatory in Luxembourg, the participants were not generally aware of the dangers of failing to take psychoactive drugs as directed or of the possible side effects of the medications. Second, the results showed that no participants seen by a psychiatrist were referred for psychotherapy. The findings provide a framework to help medical and mental health professionals better understand their clients' perspectives and experiences of depression and its treatment. This in turn can be used to provide better treatment. This in depth perspective and awareness also provides a basis for a paradigm shift in the treatment of depression in Luxembourg, as well as raises awareness of alternative treatments for depression. |
