Sex education for patients with severe mental illness in Iran: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: Patients with severe mental illness may experience cognitive deficits, impaired judgment or loss of skills. Therefore, they are prone to sexual health complications. Sex education can promote sexual health, and in many countries, it is integrated into other domains of education. The educational contents taught in western countries are not necessarily appropriate for developing countries.This study aims to address sex educational content for these patients in Iran.

Methods: We have conducted twenty-three face-to-face, deep and semi-structured interviews with patients, family members, psychiatrists, general practitioners, nurses and psychologists. We used the strategy of maximum diversity in selecting the participants.

Results: "Improving basic knowledge," "decreasing the risk of unsafe sex", "empowerment" and "persuading to ask for help" should be covered in the education.

Conclusions: Sexuality is not considered a priority for these patients. It is necessary to develop a training program with simple educational content for this high-risk group.

Innovation: Raising awareness and knowledge about the possible risks of social media on high-risk behaviours, developing social and behavioural skills, and encouraging patients to talk about their new challenges in sexual life is recommended. Cultural, spiritual and personal beliefs should be considered in designing the educational program.

Keywords: A qualitative study; Mental illness; Psychiatric patients; Sex education.