Public stigma associated with treatment of psychosis in Hong Kong

Abstract

Aim: Stigma of psychosis has negative impact on help-seeking behaviour and delay appropriate treatment. Stigma associated with treatment is a comparatively less researched topic in Chinese population, which may affect patients’ adherence and recovery. We designed a cross-sectional survey to investigate the public stigma associated with treatment of psychosis in Hong Kong. Methods: Participants were recruited from public through electronic communication and social media. Public stigma associated with treatment of psychosis was assessed online using a modified Attitude Toward Psychotropic Medications Questionnaire. Knowledge about psychosis was assessed by modified Knowledge About Schizophrenia Test. Results: (Preliminary) Nearly half of participants believed antipsychotics would make patients weak and enervated. Around one-third of participants believed antipsychotics had high risk of dependence. About one-fifth of participants believed antipsychotics were harmful poisonous substances. Its association with knowledge and demographic information will also be discussed. Conclusions: The study explored the public stigma associated with treatment of psychosis in Chinese population. Effective measures to reduce public stigma associated with treatment of psychosis in Chinese population are needed to be explored in the future.