The relationship between health behavior and medical adherence in patients with affective disorder – A self-reported survey

Background The interaction between health behaviors and medical adherence (MA) is well-researched in somatic disorders, however, little is known about this association in psychiatric disorders. We hypothesized that there is a relationship between health behaviors (smoking habits, alcohol consumption, exercise, diet, and preventive medical check-ups) and MA in affective disorders. Methods Data were collected in Austrian primary care waiting rooms with a self-report questionnaire. The study recorded data from (a) patients with affective disorders, (b) patients with other psychiatric diagnoses, and (c) individuals without psychiatric diagnoses. The groups were matched from the total sample (N = 176) according to sociodemographic variables (total n after adjustment = 84; n = 28 per group). Results There were no significant differences between groups in MA and health behavior, but a positive correlational association between dietary behavior and MA was observed only in affective disorders. Conclusion These findings suggest the implementation of targeted communication measures for patients with affective disorders, such as general practitioner counselling and patient education on both dietary behavior and MA. Health literacy on behalf of healthcare providers and adequate doctor-patient communication are important.