This question aims to understand your perceptions regarding the potential effects of participating in a clinical trial on your mental health.
We want to know your personal perspective, allowing for a wide range of answers that can provide valuable insights into mental health considerations and well-being during the clinical trial process.
I suppose the trial might show up your health challenges or even identify them and also how good/bad it is. My thing is, how would it affect my health and travel insurance??
I guess it would depend on the protocol used in the trial. I'm the type of person who needs to consider every worst case scenario as assessing risks is a way for me to avoid uncertainty and anxiety. Which means that depending on how much information I could have on that process, I could preemptively determine if there were lower or higher risks on my mental health.
As I did experiment a lot I know for sure of 1 or 2 things that could really negatively impact me, but for other cases I would probably not expect that much impact down so I wouldn't add that extra stress
Why would participating in a clinical trial affect one’s mental health?
Mental health is a very broad issue . Would this trial be for those with established issues? Those on efficient or inefficient medication ? A trial that includes workers with sleep issues and stress? If for the extreme then regular support is needed . Transport to a venue is essential plus regular support and a contact via a helpline at the very least. Tricky to change medication and for some who follow patterns like sleeping , eating , going out at certain times - those are vital coping mechanisms . Needs to be in partnership with any carers too.
What would these trials lead to ? The absolute focus is better swifter regular reliable access . Mental illness is psychological and for many there can be a lull but no cure. Talk to the patients . This is your essential source of the best information. What would they want and need ? Not just outcomes but the entire process . The majority of those that haven't either been carers or experienced mental health issues tend to be really out of touch but are all working with high patient loads , limited resources and the frustration of who to prioritise.
A random controlled blinded study would be more challenging to join if I had a serious health condition and knew I had a 50% chance of getting a placebo vs an actual medicine. If the study is one of illness perception, symptoms and management, input on product development or other measures, am always happy to participate.
The “work” involved in being in a study doesn’t put me off at all. Really it would be more the uncertainty of whether or not I’m actually getting treatment, that might cause me to decide not to join.
The researcher needs to be open about the potential risk of participating in such trial. I'll be able to make my decision based on the information provided about the research.
The only time I felt my mental health was affected in a clinical trial was during a Dementia trial where I gave a blood sample to find out if I would develop Dementia through it being hereditary in one side of my family. I was concerned some symptoms I had were the start of it, but thankfully I got the all clear. Otherwise I've been happy to participate so far.
Thanks
I would be happy to participate. I've had RLS for the better part of the past 30yrs (currently 70yoa / US resident). Im a retired ICU Physician with plenty of healthcare experience on both sides of the bed rail!
I'm on a drug trial which is managed by my local hospital and cardiologist. I fell with the regular checks, blood test and monitoring my weight I'm reassured my health and well being is been better monitored then it would have been if I was not on this drug trial. So for me it is a win win situation.
I think it's good idea hand hopefully has a good outcome , I don't think the NHS do that much to support mental health and let's face it most of the population has mental health !!
I've taken part in a medicine for cardiovascular disease. This was a three year project ran by my cardiologist at my local hospital. I was given all the information available for the trial. It was a blind test so I might have been on a placebo tablet. Was there any psychological issues? I felt supported, listened too. The cardiologist and supporting staff gave me plenty of time I've the trial to ask questions, as they say there are no stupid questions. I've now ended the trial and have been invited to discuss with the team how I found it and any concerns I might have. I think if you know enough information and understand your health condition you will be more relaxed and willing to take part.
💬 Discussion Topic: Embracing innovative approaches in mental health care💬 Discussion Topic: Are your mental health needs being met by your clinician or healthcare provider?💬 Discussion Topic: Insights and Advice for Our Former Selves💬 Discussion Topic: What could improve your trust in healthcare providers? 💬 Discussion Topic: have you been asked any questions, or given any guidance that you have found particularly helpful or unhelpful?
