[Quality of life of the mentally ill]

Object of this research project was to study the subjective quality of life of psychiatric patients. The vulnerability of 424 out- and inpatients was assessed. The Vulnerability Index, composed of: marital status, income, health, life conditions, occupation, and risk factors in childhood was used. According to their vulnerability, two groups of patients were differentiated: patients with high and low vulnerability. We compared these objective criteria of vulnerability with the subjective quality of life (Q-LES-Q). Quality of life was also compared with diagnosis, severity of illness, and treatment (first contact/long-term contacts). Quality of life of 250 patients was analysed after one year follow up. Patients with a low vulnerability score are more satisfied with 'social relations' than patients with a high vulnerability score. In-patients are more satisfied with 'social relations' than out-patients. Out-patients are more satisfied with their 'physical health', 'subjective feelings', 'leisure time activities', and 'overall life satisfaction' than in-patients. Patients with a mild affective disorder have a better 'life satisfaction' than patients with severe affective disorder. Quality of life of schizophrenics and of patients with anxiety and adjustment disorders has improved significantly after one year.