This study aimed to characterize mental patients and their companions at three psychiatric services; to identify diseases, diagnoses and treatments; to learn about their expectations and opinions about mental illness and psychiatric care. Methodology: Patients with mental disorders and their companions (750) at three care services (Emergency Unit, Psychosocial Care Center and Mental Health Clinic) answered the Clinical-Social Characterization Questionnaire and the Opinion Measurement Scale on concepts and psychiatric care. Results: Single patients with unstable relations with their partners, low educational level, unemployed, with little information about their diagnoses and treatments. Medication treatments and low commitment levels were predominant. Many patients had acquired the illness over the last five years. Subjects at the three services revealed diverging opinions regarding concepts and care.
psychiatry; mental health; nursing
