Previous research has found high levels of
sexual dysfunction amongst psychiatric in-patients, and patients
living in the community, who have psychotic disorders.
Psychosexual disorders and relationship
problems are not often assessed or treated in people with
psychoses. 2 studies have been carried out, however, suggesting
that there is a need to provide services for this vulnerable group
of people.
The first study surveyed 39 men and 17 women
who had been admitted to the acute psychiatric wards of an inner
London psychiatric unit. The patients were seen within 7 days of
their admission, and were interviewed about existing sexual and
relationship problems.
The admissions consisted largely of single men
with schizophrenia, and married or cohabiting women with affective
disorders (such as depression).
Of the men, 62% of those with a diagnosis of
schizophrenia, between 63%-75% of those with affective disorders,
and 17% of those with other diagnoses reported current sexual or
relationship problems.
Of the women, 25% of those with schizophrenia,
50%-100% of those with affective disorders, and 25% with other
diagnoses reported a sexual or relationship problem.
The second study assessed people with severe,
persistent psychoses who were under the care of a single community
team.
Amongst the 40 men interviewed, sexual
difficulties were reported by 47.5%. Of the 13 women assessed,
30.8% reported sexual problems.
82.5% of the men, and 38.5% of the women in
this study were not in intimate relationships. 42.5% of the men,
and 38.5% of the women had never had a sexual relationship.
The researchers conclude that the high levels
of sexual and relationship problems among psychiatric in-patients
shows that such matters should be assessed, and therapeutic
interventions should be considered, at the time of hospital
admission.
Amongst patients with severe psychoses living
in the community, there is a high degree of unmet need for specific
interventions, including assessment, talking treatments and
medication. This warrants evaluation of service structures, and the
development of treatment packages, tailored for this group of
people.
Overall, clinical services and future research
should consider the sexual and relationship needs of people with
severe psychoses.
For further information, please contact Liz Fox or Deborah
Hart in the Communications Department.
Telephone: 020 7235 2351 Extensions. 298 or 127
References:
Royal College of Psychiatrists’
Annual Meeting, EICC, Edinburgh
19 – 22 June 2007