City Research Online

Abstract

This review examines the literature on sex and relationship issues in the context of serious and persistent mental health problems. It identifies gaps in the research and highlights key issues needing further investigation. The available published documents have been identified, which contain information, ideas, data and evidence on the topic. A critical analysis of the subject, through the examination of the various documents, is provided. The main themes that emerged included HIV/AIDS, medication and sexual dysfunction, sexuality needs, intimate relationships, family planning, policies and sex education. Several subthemes are discussed and include needs assessment, stigma and loneliness. The key findings highlight the lack of systematic studies in the UK, especially regarding the subjective views of patients in determining need and the subsequent development of appropriate plans of care. The author argues that future mental health research needs to go beyond investigating perceived 'risky' behaviours and should include potential therapeutic responses in all areas of sexuality. Further recommendations are made in terms of nurse education particularly the inclusion of psychosexual aspects in future pre- and postregistration curricula. This paper may be of interest to service users, mental health practitioners working alongside people with serious and persistent mental health problems as well as educators, researchers and policy makers.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: McCann, E. (2003). Exploring sexual and relationship possibilities for people with psychosis--a review of the literature. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 10(6), pp. 640-649., which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2850.2003.00635.x. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions. This article may not be enhanced, enriched or otherwise transformed into a derivative work, without express permission from Wiley or by statutory rights under applicable legislation. Copyright notices must not be removed, obscured or modified. The article must be linked to Wiley’s version of record on Wiley Online Library and any embedding, framing or otherwise making available the article or pages thereof by third parties from platforms, services and websites other than Wiley Online Library must be prohibited.
Publisher Keywords:	HIV, AIDS, psychosis, relationships, schizophrenia, sexuality
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Nursing

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