A qualitative investigation into the effects of akathisia
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The psychosocial effects of akathisia after neuroleptic use: A qualitative exploration of real life experiences.
IRAS ID
257977
Contact name
Luke Beardmore
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 8 days
Research summary
Akathisia is a condition which is characterised by feelings of inner-restlessness and an inability to sit still. Akathisia is known to develop as a side effect of antipsychotic and more recently, some antidepressant medications. Though researchers have attempted to classify akathisia into different subtypes, no universally accepted definition exists. In part, this is due to the lack of research looking at the impact that the development of akathisia has for service users. Additionally, the existing research base on akathisia is focused on what other medications can be used to counteract the symptoms.
The aim of this study is to investigate how the development of akathisia affects the lives of service users socially and psychologically. We also aim to understand how service users make sense of their experiences. Due to the limited existing research on how akathisia impacts service users, we think that speaking directly to people who suffer with akathisia is the most appropriate method for doing this research. Semi-structured interviews will be undertaken and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). This has the advantage of being an in-depth way of analysing participant’s responses to capture the impact their experiences have had on their lives. We aim to recruit 6-8 participants whom must have experienced any of the symptoms associated with akathisia and received a neuroleptic medication for a diagnosed mental health problem.
The findings from this research will help to enhance the care and treatment that service users receive, by increasing professional awareness of the experiences of people who develop akathisia. It is also envisaged that through furthering scientific knowledge, the symptoms associated with akathisia will be better recognised, thus adding to the development of an accepted definition and increased clinical understanding of the condition. The results of the study will be disseminated through publication in relevant scientific journals.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/NW/0226
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jun 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion