Perception about psychosocial integration clubs for people with schizophrenia in Lima, Peru

Abstract

Objective: To know the perception of users, caregivers and health professionals about the implementation, operation and satisfaction related to their participation in psychosocial integration clubs (PIC) for people with diagnosis of schizophrenia in two districts of northern Lima. Materials and methods: This study had a qualitative methodological approach. In-depth interviews and 3 focus groups were conducted with 21 participants including users, family caregivers, and mental health professionals. The information was collected in December 2018. We analyzed the perceptions of the implementation process and satisfaction of the club’s users, their affective relationships and leisure, their link with families and socio-community networks, as well as the perceived limitations. Results: The perception of club’s users, caregivers and mental health professionals was favorable regarding the implementation, functioning and satisfaction of the users, as an integrating and socializing role, through their active participation, social reintegration in normalizing activities with their community, the health network and in the strengthening of family ties. PICs are perceived as spaces for socialization that have a relevant meaning in the lives of users. Conclusions: Participants perceive PICs as a space for well-being and adequate use of free time, which contributes to the rehabilitation of the user’s disease.