Effect of Medication Counseling on Mental Health Outcomes Among Patients on Psychiatric Medications

Authors: Asma F. Ashehri, Johara O. Alhomoud, Alya H. Aljahni, Hana A. Albyyaai, Ahmad Hamad Almansour

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Abstract
This study evaluates how medication counseling impacts mental health outcomes for patients prescribed psychiatric medications. Since adherence to psychiatric treatment is often less than ideal, effective counseling could enhance understanding, reduce stigma, and improve compliance.
Objective: To conduct a randomized controlled trial comparing outcomes between patients receiving standard care and those receiving enhanced medication counseling.
Method: The research uses a randomized controlled trial design, enrolling 200 adult patients diagnosed with various mental health disorders (such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder) who are currently on psychiatric medications. Participants are randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which receives enhanced medication counseling, or the control group, which receives standard care without structured counseling. The intervention includes an initial one-on-one counseling session with a trained healthcare provider, followed by monthly follow-up sessions to reinforce learning and address any emerging issues.
Outcome: The study will assess medication adherence using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and measure mental health outcomes with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and Quality of Life Scale (QOLS). Data will be collected at baseline, three months, and six months after the intervention.
It is expected that participants receiving enhanced medication counseling will show significantly higher medication adherence and improved mental health outcomes compared to those in the control group. By providing evidence for the effectiveness of structured medication counseling, this study aims to guide best practices in psychiatric care, ultimately enhancing patient adherence, treatment effectiveness, and quality of life.

Keywords: Medication Counseling, Mental Health Outcomes, Psychiatric Medications, Medication Adherence, Randomized Controlled Trial.

Paper Id: 231300

Published On: 2017-03-02

Published In: Volume 5, Issue 2, March-April 2017

Cite This: Effect of Medication Counseling on Mental Health Outcomes Among Patients on Psychiatric Medications - Asma F. Ashehri, Johara O. Alhomoud, Alya H. Aljahni, Hana A. Albyyaai, Ahmad Hamad Almansour - IJIRMPS Volume 5, Issue 2, March-April 2017.

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