“That little doorway where I could suddenly start shouting out”: Barriers and enablers to the disclosure of distressing voices

Abstract

Hearing distressing voices is a key feature of psychosis. The time between voice onset and disclosure may be crucial as voices can grow in complexity. This study aimed to investigate barriers and enablers to early voice disclosure. In total, 20 voice hearers were interviewed, and Thematic Analysis was used to identify themes. Beliefs about the effect of disclosure on self and others acted as a barrier and enabler to voices being discussed. Voice hearing awareness should be increased among young people, the public, and care services. To support earlier disclosure, measures should be taken to increase skill among those likely to be the recipients of disclosure.