Bipolar disorder and medical adherence: A Chinese perspective

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of New Zealand Chinese with bipolar disorder in regards to medication adherence. Method: Nine New Zealand Chinese with bipolar disorder (BD) type I or II who had reasonable performance in role functioning were interviewed and data analysis was guided by an inductive approach. Results: Relationships with doctors had the most impact on the participants' attitudes towards medication. The majority of the participants in this study went to see Chinese psychiatrists and were professionally linked with Chinese social workers. Meetings with health professionals have been described by the participants as forms of interpersonal interactions. With a deep feeling of trust and respect towards their doctors, the participants felt more positive towards using prescribed medication. In contrast, when the participants experienced feelings of neglect by their doctors they felt less satisfaction towards the treatment. However, when the participants saw Western health professionals, their attitudes towards medication were more related to perceived efficacy of treatment. Conclusions: There is a strong need for facilitating the connection between health professionals and clients. Furthermore, it would be useful for educating Chinese clients on how medication works, their side effects, and interaction with other drugs. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.