Life after hospital discharge for people with long-term mental disorders in South Korea: Focusing on the "revolving door phenomenon"

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the lives of Koreans with long-term mental disorders who had experienced multiple readmissions after hospital discharges. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 participants and thematic analysis was used to examine their data. Findings Four themes emerged from the data, describing their lives: they suffered in the aspects of social maladjustment, loneliness, causing shame to their families, and managing mental illnesses. Practical Implications After patients with mental disorders are discharged from the hospital, they need transitional care before systematic community-based care to enhance their autonomy and reduce the burden on their families.