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July 10, 2026Open Access

Stuck between a rock and an unnecessarily hard place—a qualitative interview study of experiences of psychiatric inpatient care among persons with severe dissociative states

Key Points

The aim is to describe experiences of psychiatric inpatient care among persons living with severe dissociative states.
Conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 persons with severe dissociative states.
Utilized qualitative content analysis to analyze interview data.
Followed COREQ guidelines for reporting qualitative research.
Identified a significant gap in understanding trauma dynamics in psychiatric inpatient care.
Emphasized the necessity for increased trauma awareness in care settings.
Highlighted the role of mental health nurses in promoting safe, person-centered, and trauma-informed care.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Persons with severe dissociative states constitute a vulnerable group in psychiatric inpatient care and are at risk of being misunderstood and mistreated. The aim was to describe experiences of psychiatric inpatient care among persons living with severe dissociative states. METHODS: Sixteen persons with lived experience of severe dissociative states and previous contact with psychiatric inpatient care participated in semi-structured interviews that were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. This study is reported in accordance with the COREQ guidelines. RESULTS: and DISCUSSION: The results suggest a gap in understanding of trauma dynamics in psychiatric inpatient care, implying a need for increased trauma awareness. Mental health nurses should lead the promotion of safe, person-centred and trauma-informed psychiatric inpatient care for persons with severe dissociative states, requiring authority, education, support, supervision and resources.

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