P-231 - Differences in Quality of Life and Well Being Among men and Women With Psychiatric Disorder in a Greek Psychiatric Department

Abstract

Introduction:

The issue of quality of life (QOL) has received increased attention from the medical community due to its importance for patient rehabilitation. Measurement of QOL can be a comprehensive means of evaluating various aspects of care but research is still needed in terms of psychiatric patients.

Objectives:

To compare the self evaluation of QOL and well being in patients with a psychiatric disorder.

Aims:

To reveille the significant gender differences in QOL and well being.

Methods:

222 inpatients in a psychiatric department in Athens-Greece took part in the study 1 day before they left the department.134 of them were males and 88 females. the questionnaires that were used are the Short Form health questionnaire (12 questions; SF12) and the subjective well being scale (SWBC). Independent sample t test were performed with SPSS16.

Results:

Women had a significantly higher mean score (MWB = 14.9 ± 6.6) in well being (T = -2.604 p < .05) and mental composite score (MCS) (MMCS = 32.8 ± 9.4) (T = -2.760 p < .05) than men (MWB =14.9 ± 6.6) and (MMCS = 29.7 ± 6.6). Men on the other hand, had a significantly better physical component score (PCS) (M = 44.1± 8.1) (T = 3.298p = .001) than women (M = 40.2 ± 7.7).

Conclusions:

Analysis shows that gender is a significant factor that affects the self evaluation of quality of life and well being among patients with psychiatric disorders. More research is needed in order to find out significant differences between different diagnoses of DSM and gender.