Abstract
BACKGROUND: Millions of people worldwide are affected by major depressive disorder (MDD). However, those with MDD do not receive treatment. More studies have been conducted on the efficacy of medications rather than the subjective experiences of mental healthcare users (MHCUs). AIM: This study was conducted to investigate the experiences of MHCUs regarding the quality of their MDD treatment and to suggest recommendations that are necessary to bring a positive change towards the quality of MDD treatment. SETTING: The study was conducted at a Tshwane District Hospital. METHODS: A qualitative, exploratory study was used in this study. Seventeen MHCUs were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using observations, interviews and focus group discussions, and the data were analysed using grounded theory. RESULTS: One theme emerged from this study: 'The holistic treatment approach'. Two sub-themes emerged: 'Administration of service delivery' and 'Challenges of service delivery'. CONCLUSION: Research findings show that the current treatment of MDD is beneficial. However, challenges exist that negatively affect the quality of the MDD treatment and they need to be addressed urgently by relevant stakeholders. CONTRIBUTION: The study could contribute through: (1) providing recommendations that, if implemented, could assist the decision-makers and MHCPs in understanding the quality of MDD treatment from the MHCUs' perspective and utilise these for policy development and to make necessary treatment adjustments.