Isolated Psychiatric Ward Patients in Southern Israel with Severe Mental Illnesses Describe Their Sexual Needs: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Intimacy and sexuality are fundamental issues in human nature, but have been neglected in the rehabilitation of mental health patients, particularly those admitted into psychiatric wards. Patients’ sexuality is excluded from the discourse; yet it exists in the daily lives of the patients. The study examines the sexual needs and challenges of people with severe mental illnesses admitted to an isolated psychiatric ward. 13 men were interviewed in a semi-structured interview regarding their sexuality and the challenges they meet when experiencing and expressing their sexuality as patients in an isolated ward. A thematic analysis was conducted. Two principal themes were identified: 1. Challenges in realizing sexuality within the isolated ward. This theme included sub themes: performing sexual acts and exposure to sexuality within the ward; medications' side effects; dialogue with the staff; sexuality in the ward presented as crossing limits; and absence of a space to fulfill sexuality. 2. Suggestions for improvements in the hospital, stemming from the patients' experiences and ideas, such as starting an open dialogue with the staff, supplying patients with measures for protected sex, and more. The findings highlight the lack of healthy expression of sexuality inside the wards, despite its importance for improving patients’ well-being during their rehabilitation. Medical staff and policymakers should be aware of the sexual aspects of hospitalization in a psychiatric ward. The study also indicates the need for national policy that will address patients' sexual needs, including clear instructions that consider the uniqueness of the target population.