Lived experience of loneliness in psychosis: A qualitative approach

Loneliness impedes recovery from mental illness. Despite increased interest in loneliness in psychosis, qualitative methods are underused in clinical research on this topic.

We used qualitative interviews to explore loneliness among persons with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs). We examined which aspects of living with psychosis were associated with the experience of loneliness, including symptomatology, social relationships, and disruptions in school/work.

Sixteen participants diagnosed with SSDs engaged in semi-structured, qualitative interviews about loneliness. Participants commented on current activities and social relationships, including their perceptions of the quantity, quality and types of relationships. Important demographic and clinical information was acquired through communication with participants and/or through medical record review. Thematic analysis was used to examine interview content.

Our analyses revealed four key topic areas and several sub-themes related to loneliness across participants, including aspects of the physical environment (e.g. financial limitations), social context (e.g. lacking a romantic partner), and psychological functioning (e.g. psychotic/symptoms) that impact lonely feelings. Participants commented on coping strategies to manage loneliness and provided suggestions for possible interventions.

Persons diagnosed with SSDs report significant and impactful feelings of loneliness. This study highlights the need for novel and effective treatments targeting loneliness in this population.