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McLoughlin C, McWhirter L, Pisegna K, Tijssen MAJ, Tak LM, Carson A, Stone J. Stigma in functional neurological disorder (FND) - A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 112:102460. [PMID: 38905960 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate stigma and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) regarding: 1) prevalence and associated factors, 2) the nature and context of stigma in FND, and 3) stigma-reduction interventions. METHODS We searched four relevant databases from inception to December 2023, using search terms relevant to FND and stigma themes. We employed the method of synthesis by "aggregation and configuration" to synthesise and analyse the data into emergent themes. RESULTS We found 127 studies, spanning 148 countries, involving 18,886 participants. Of these, 4889 were patients, 13,123 were healthcare professionals, and 526 were caregivers. Quantitatively, stigma has been mainly studied in patients with functional seizures, and was higher than patients with epilepsy in three studies. Stigma experienced by patients is associated with poorer quality of life and caregiver burden. We found 10 themes and 29 subthemes revealing stigma as a systemic process, with intrapersonal, interpersonal and structural aspects. Few studies examined the perspective of caregivers, the public or online community. We identified six anti-stigma interventions. CONCLUSION Stigma in FND is a layered process, and affects patient quality of life and provision of care. Stigma needs to be addressed from the top structures, at governmental level, so that appropriate care pathways can be created, giving patients with FND parity of esteem with other medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caoimhe McLoughlin
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Laura McWhirter
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marina A J Tijssen
- UMCG Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lineke M Tak
- Dimence Alkura, Specialist center Persistent Somatic Symptoms, Nico Bolkensteinlaan 65, 7416 SE Deventer, the Netherlands
| | - Alan Carson
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Samuels T, Pretorius C. Healthcare providers' perspectives on stigma when working with people with functional seizures. Seizure 2023; 112:121-127. [PMID: 37820427 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to explore healthcare providers' (HCPs) perspectives and experiences of stigma when working with people with Functional Seizures (FS). Particular focus was given to understanding HCPs' experience and knowledge of FS, discovering the attitudes held by HCPs towards working with FS as a mental health condition, and exploring HCPs' views of how their stigma manifests towards people with FS when in an occupational setting. METHODS Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with thirteen HCPs who specialised in the diagnosis and/or treatment and management of FS. A reflexive thematic analysis was utilised to analyse the semi-structured interviews for means of identifying themes within the data. RESULTS Themes identified included those of contextual factors which indirectly influence stigma, inclusive of a lack of time and resources. HCPs additionally described having a general limited understanding of FS as a condition and becoming frustrated with their patients, which in turn fuelled a stigmatising culture. HCPs also pointed to the idea of diagnostic terms being inappropriate and adding to stigma. HCPs' personal stigma as well as institutionalised stigma were identified. The HCPs also reported on the negative attitudes and actions directed towards FS patients. Strategies to reduce stigma were also explored. CONCLUSION There are various ways in which HCPs' stigma towards individuals with FS can occur, both directly and indirectly. HCPs play a key role in supporting their FS patients and alleviating the effects of stigma; thus, it is important to understand their perspectives and experiences through further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tresan Samuels
- Stellenbosch University, Department of Psychology, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch
| | - Chrisma Pretorius
- Stellenbosch University, Department of Psychology, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch.
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Saker TS, Katson M, Herskovitz SE, Herskovitz M. Knowledge and emotional attitudes of health care practitioners regarding patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2022; 80:1097-1103. [PMID: 36577408 PMCID: PMC9797271 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1758646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNESs) are paroxysmal events that resemble epileptic seizures without concomitant changes in electroencephalograms (EEGs) or any other physiological cause. These seizures are one of the most common and dramatic conversion disorders. First responders treat many PNES patients with unnecessary emergency abortive medication and sometimes even intubate them. Several of our PNES patients have complained they have experienced harsh attitudes from health care practitioners (HCPs), especially during their stay in the emergency room (ER). OBJECTIVE To assess the emotional attitude of HCPs toward PNES patients. METHODS We handed a questionnaire containing 23 questions regarding PNES patients to HCPs from emergency medicine, internal medicine, and neurology disciplines. The questions dealt with three categories: diagnosis, management, and emotional attitudes. RESULTS Overall, 47 HCPs participated in this study: 11 ER, 18 internal medicine, and 18 neurology practitioners. The HCP from those disciplines showed high knowledge and good management practice of PNES patients. On the other hand, the HCPs agreed with most emotional attitude statements regarding PNES patients, reflecting a high percentage of negative emotional attitudes toward this group of patients. We did not find any correlation between negative emotional attitude and HCP department, profession, or seniority. CONCLUSIONS Although HCPs in our center perform good management practice regarding PNES patients, most reported a negative emotional attitude. This finding implies that what PNES patients feel regarding the harsh attitudes is also reflected by HCP views. Emotional attitudes towards PNES patients may not depend solely on the level of knowledge of the HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Katson
- Rambam Health Care Center, Neurology Department, Haifa, Israel.
| | | | - Moshe Herskovitz
- Rambam Health Care Center, Neurology Department, Haifa, Israel.,Technion Institute of Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel.,Address for correspondence Moshe Herskovitz
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Stigma in Functional Seizures: A Scoping Review. Seizure 2022; 99:131-152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Hallab A, Sen A. Epilepsy and psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in forcibly displaced people: A scoping review. Seizure 2021; 92:128-148. [PMID: 34509907 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
With a growing number of forcibly displaced people (FDP) globally, the focus on their medical needs has necessarily increased. Studies about the prevalence and incidence of epilepsy and psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in this population are, though, sparse. This Review highlights the importance of exploring and managing both conditions in these vulnerable people to promote global health. We performed an exhaustive review of 10 databases, as well as a manual search of relevant websites related to global health and refugee-related organizations. We analyzed data related to the prevalence and incidence of epilepsy and PNES; health visits; costs of medical care and challenges faced by healthcare workers in relation to FDP with these conditions. Fifty six papers met our inclusion criteria. Of these, 53 reported directly or indirectly on the prevalence of epilepsy and its costs in FDP. Two articles reported on the prevalence of PNES in forcibly displaced people. The reported prevalence of epilepsy in FDP varied from 0.2% to 39.13%, being highest in people with pre-existing neurological or psychiatric comorbidities. Only one study reported on the incidence of epilepsy in internally displaced children. Data from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) have identified a tendency to higher incidence of epilepsy in children following wars. While within displaced women without a history of sexual violence the rate of PNES was 16.7%, in FDP women with such a history the rate of PNES was 43.7% (p=0.02). The healthcare costs for epilepsy can be high, with recurrent health visits related to seizures being the most common cause of health encounters in refugee camps. Increasing awareness and further studies of multicultural aspects to improve shared understanding of seizure phenomenon in vulnerable displaced populations would seem crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Hallab
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Section for personality disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, Berlin 12203, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health. Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Arjune Sen
- Oxford Epilepsy Research Group, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom.
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Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: Comparing what South African healthcare providers communicate to patients at the point of diagnosis against international guidelines. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 101:106399. [PMID: 31698264 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The process of communicating a diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) has been widely studied internationally and found to be an important factor in the reduction of symptoms as well as promoting the uptake of treatment. To date, no research has focused on diagnosis communication in the South African context. This study used applied thematic analysis to explore the content addressed by a sample of 11 South African healthcare providers (HCPs) when presenting a diagnosis of PNES to a patient. The purpose was to investigate the areas of alignment between the international guidelines and what is done in practice and to identify other elements communicated by South African HCPs that were not addressed in the guidelines. The key communication elements described in five international guidelines were grouped into nine main themes, and coding frequencies were used to identify areas of alignment. In general, the practices of the participants aligned closely to the international guidelines. There was close alignment between the guidelines and the practices of HCPs in respect of six themes, namely: that the diagnosis was not epilepsy; how the diagnosis was made; that PNES was a real, debilitating condition; an explanation of possible causes and maintaining factors; that antiepileptic drugs are not effective in treating PNES; and a description of appropriate treatment. Participants suggested four additional subthemes that may be included when presenting a diagnosis: what to do in the event of future seizures; that further investigations are not helpful; enquiry into the link between stressors and seizures; and a discussion about comorbid conditions. Participants noted the value of utilizing a guideline as a means to ensure that all HCPs involved with a patient communicate a consistent message. They emphasized that diagnosis presentation must be relevant to the South African population and discussed the need to tailor explanations for the patient's home language and level of education. Cross-cultural barriers and different cultural health beliefs may require a specially tailored communication approach grounded in a clear cultural understanding.
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Jordan H, Feehan S, Perdue I, Murray J, Goldstein LH. Exploring psychiatrists' perspectives of working with patients with dissociative seizures in the UK healthcare system as part of the CODES trial: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026493. [PMID: 31072856 PMCID: PMC6528023 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is currently limited research exploring healthcare professionals' (HCPs) experiences of working with patients with dissociative seizures (DS). Existing studies do not focus on the role of psychiatrists in treating this complex condition. The objective of this study was to gain an understanding of UK-based psychiatrists' experiences of the DS patient group. Against the backdrop of a UK-wide randomised controlled trial (RCT), the focus was broadened to encompass issues arising in everyday practice with the DS patient group. DESIGN, PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS A qualitative study using semistructured interviews was undertaken with 10 psychiatrists currently working with DS patients within the context of a large RCT investigating treatments for DS. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and subthemes. SETTING The psychiatrists were working in Liaison or Neuropsychiatry services in England. RESULTS The key themes identified were other HCPs' attitudes to DS and the challenges of the DS patient group. There is a clear knowledge gap regarding DS for many HCPs and other clinical services can be reluctant to take referrals for this patient group. Important challenges posed by this patient group included avoidance (of difficult emotions and help), alexithymia and interpersonal difficulties. Difficulties with alexithymia meant DS patients could struggle to identify triggers for their seizures and to express their emotions. Interpersonal difficulties raised included difficulties in attachment with both HCPs and family members. CONCLUSIONS A knowledge gap for HCPs regarding DS has been identified and needs to be addressed to improve patient care. Given the complexity of the patient group and that clinicians from multiple disciplines will come into contact with DS patients, it is essential for any educational strategy to be implemented across the whole range of specialties, and to account for those already in practice as well as future trainees. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN05681227; NCT02325544; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Jordan
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Feehan
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iain Perdue
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Joanna Murray
- Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Yogarajah M, Child R, Agrawal N, Cope S, Edwards M, Mula M. Functional seizures: An evaluation of the attitudes of general practitioners local to a tertiary neuroscience service in London. Epilepsia Open 2019; 4:54-62. [PMID: 30868115 PMCID: PMC6398091 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Functional seizures are a common functional neurologic disorder. Given their chronic nature, and the biopsychosocial factors involved in their etiology, general practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in the care of these patients. However, little is known about the attitudes of GPs toward, and knowledge of, functional seizures. METHODS The Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre in London provides a comprehensive service to patients with functional seizures. As part of a service evaluation we conducted an online survey among local GPs over a 1-month period assessing their attitudes toward, and knowledge of, functional seizures. RESULTS One hundred twenty of 974 surveyed GPs replied to the survey (12.3%). Approximately 75% of GPs readily use the term "pseudoseizures," and over 50% were not sure or did not think that functional seizures were involuntary. Nearly 30% believed, or were unsure as to whether, functional seizures occur only when patients are stressed. Despite approximately 50% of GPs expressing interest in getting involved in the management of these patients, a similar proportion do not feel confident in dealing with queries from patients with functional seizures. Although most GPs felt that neurology and psychiatry should be the primary caregivers in the diagnosis and management, respectively, of functional seizures, 50% were also of the opinion that neurology should be involved in the management of these patients. SIGNIFICANCE This survey highlights the attitudes of, and descriptive terms used by, GPs toward patients with functional seizures. Our findings suggest a need for better and clearer provision of information to GPs about this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahinda Yogarajah
- Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience CentreSt George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical SciencesSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Ruth Child
- Medical SchoolSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Niruj Agrawal
- Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience CentreSt George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of NeuropsychiatrySouth West London & St George's Mental Health TrustLondonUK
| | - Sarah Cope
- Department of NeuropsychiatrySouth West London & St George's Mental Health TrustLondonUK
| | - Mark Edwards
- Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience CentreSt George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical SciencesSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Marco Mula
- Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience CentreSt George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Institute of Medical and Biomedical EducationSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
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du Toit A, Pretorius C. Seizures in Namibia: A study of traditional health practitioners. Epilepsia Open 2018; 3:374-382. [PMID: 30187008 PMCID: PMC6119750 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Countries in sub-Saharan Africa are plagued by poor healthcare facilities, lack of specialist care, and limited financial resources. People with seizures often rely on the help of traditional health practitioners (THPs). Traditional health practices are not acknowledged in Namibia and remain unregulated and open to exploitation. We conducted a qualitative study to gain an understanding of THPs' perceptions and experiences in delivering seizure care in Namibia. METHODS This study formed part of a larger mixed-method study that explored seizure care among healthcare providers (HCPs) in Namibia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 THPs in Namibia. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes and subthemes in the data. Themes were interpreted using the different levels of Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory to illustrate the perceptions and experiences of THPs in the management of seizures. RESULTS THPs distinguish between seizures with physical causes and those caused by witchcraft, evil spirits, and supernatural forces. THPs acknowledge the role of Western medicine in the treatment of medically explained seizures (physical causes). Seizures as a result of medically unexplained symptoms (spiritual) are deemed best treated by traditional medicine (TM). Diagnostic and treatment practices are person-specific and are guided by divination and the use of plant and animal material. Treatment success is measured by the complete absence of seizures. Biomedical treatment is seen as lacking due to its focus on seizure control and failure to provide a permanent cure. SIGNIFICANCE In countries with limited healthcare resources, the untapped potential of THPs may play a valuable role in bridging the treatment gap for seizures. Incorporating THPs into the healthcare system depends on proper regulation and clear demarcation of roles between service providers. Improved referral practices and collaboration between service providers will be of benefit for people with seizures who are often exposed to stigma and discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anina du Toit
- Department of PsychologyStellenbosch UniversityStellenboschSouth Africa
| | - Chrisma Pretorius
- Department of PsychologyStellenbosch UniversityStellenboschSouth Africa
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Diagnostic and treatment practices for psychogenic nonepileptic and epileptic seizures in Namibia. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 83:92-102. [PMID: 29665572 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Information about existing healthcare resources for the management of seizures in developing countries is lacking. These countries are often poorly equipped to deal with the immense burden of costs, mortality, stigma, seizure-related disability, and comorbidities presented by seizure disorders. This study aimed to contribute to the goals of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) by investigating the resources available for patients with seizure in Namibia. METHODS Two separate surveys on the diagnostic and treatment practices for epileptic seizures (ES) and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) were administered to private healthcare practitioners (HCPs) in Namibia. RESULTS The findings are based on 50 responses from HCPs involved in the management of seizures. The responses indicate that HCPs have less confidence in their ability to manage PNES than ES. Psychological/psychiatric assessments are seldom utilized. Although HCPs engage in face-to-face communication of diagnoses, they seldom refer patients to additional sources of information. Healthcare practitioners follow up patients with ES more regularly than those with PNES. Healthcare practitioners indicated their willingness to collaborate and recognize the role of traditional health practitioners (THPs) in a supportive capacity when it comes to the management of seizures. Financial constraints, limited availability of specialized equipment, and lack of knowledge and awareness regarding seizure disorders among both HCPs and patients were mentioned as major obstacles in accessing healthcare services. CONCLUSION The findings of this study add to the current literature by demonstrating some of the particular characteristics of HCPs from a lower middle-income African country regarding the diagnosis and treatment of PNES and ES.
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Rawlings GH, Reuber M. Health care practitioners’ perceptions of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies. Epilepsia 2018; 59:1109-1123. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.14189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gregg H. Rawlings
- Academic Neurology Unit; University of Sheffield; Sheffield UK
- Academic Unit of Elderly Care and Rehabilitation; Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; Bradford UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit; University of Sheffield; Sheffield UK
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