Assessment of self-care and medication adherence in individuals with mental health conditions

Abstract Objectives This descriptive study explored whether patients with mental health conditions engage in personal medicine (self-care activities) as part of their treatment regimen. Personal medicine is patient-identified and -initiated activities of self-care that can improve mental health through various means, including physical activity, social engagement, and spiritual connectedness. The purpose of this study was to explore patient engagement in personal medicine within an underserved population and to evaluate the impact self-care might have on self-reported medication use and adherence and patient perception of mental health control. Design Cross-sectional study design with a face-to-face verbally administered survey assessing medication adherence, engagement in self-care activities, perception of self-care, and mental health control. Setting The study site was a nonprofit charitable pharmacy in an urban setting. The pharmacy provides medications and pharmacy services at no charge, including disease state education, point-of-care testing, and medication therapy management. Participants Study participants included those who fill medications for mental health conditions and who are age 18 years and older. Main outcome measures Main outcomes included engagement in self-care and self-reported medication adherence. Additional measures included stratification of dimensions of self-care, perception of mental health control, and patient knowledge of community resources. Results Overall, 81.7% of participants engaged in activities of self-care, with 98.3% recognizing self-care as important to improving and maintaining their mental health. Greater self-reported adherence rates and mental health control were seen with patients who participate in self-care. Conclusion Participants who identify and engage in personal medicine recognize its value and are willing to incorporate it into their treatment regimen. As accessible and trusted health care providers, pharmacists can encourage patients to identify and use personal medicine to aid in the improvement of their mental health condition.