Reflections from individuals with schizophrenia on a life with delusions and hallucinations: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Background: Despite their profound influence on the lives of individuals with schizophrenia, few studies explore delusions and hallucinations from the first-person perspective using a phenomenological approach. This study aimed to examine how individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia experience delusions and hallucinations from their own perspective. Methods: This descriptive phenomenological study was conducted between August and September 2023. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who regularly attended a state community mental health center in eastern Turkey. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method. The study was reported in line with the COREQ checklist. Results: Four main themes were identified: (1) effects of schizophrenia, (2) triggers for delusions and hallucinations, (3) the impact of delusions and hallucinations on daily life, and (4) coping with delusions and hallucinations. Ten sub-themes captured psychological, physical, and social effects and triggers, as well as control mechanisms, challenges in life, perceived social support, and emotions. Conclusion: The findings highlight the pervasive psychological, physical, and social burden of living with delusions and hallucinations and the variability in coping resources and support. Developing and evaluating tailored psychosocial interventions may help individuals with schizophrenia manage these experiences more effectively. These findings suggest the need for developing psychoeducation programs focused on identifying personal symptom triggers, family-based support interventions that enhance communication and stigma reduction, and community mental health interventions aimed at strengthening coping skills, social participation, and emotional regulation.