Exploring the experiences of loneliness in adults with mental health problems: A participatory qualitative interview study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Loneliness is associated with many mental health conditions, as both a potential causal and an exacerbating factor. Richer evidence about how people with mental health problems experience loneliness, and about what makes it more or less severe, is needed to underpin research on strategies to help address loneliness.

Methods

Our aim was to explore experiences of loneliness, as well as what helps address it, among a diverse sample of adults living with mental health problems in the UK. We recruited purposively via online networks and community organisations, with most interviews conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 59 consenting participants face-to-face, by video call or telephone. Researchers with relev

SUBMITTER: Birken M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9990944 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature