The experiences of Iranian patients with epilepsy from their disease: A content analysis

This qualitative study investigated experiences of patients with epilepsy in Iran regarding stigma. Twenty-two participants were chosen by purposive sampling method. After getting informed consent, we conducted and recorded interviews and then transcribed them verbatim. After that, all the researchers read the texts thoroughly, and the data were analyzed using conventional content analysis method. Seven categories emerged from the analysis including need for support, defense mechanisms, superstitious beliefs, and negative feelings, negative reactions of others, imposed deprivations, and spirituality. These results will increase healthcare professionals knowledge about the problems of Iranian patients with epilepsy and improve the design of healthcare models that can promote successful coping strategies for them.