Table 1 Items/sub-themes added by the expert user group in the theme and item generation stage

1

Autonomy in my care

This was dropped as it was more about ‘process’ rather than ‘outcome’

2

I am satisfied in my sex life

This was dropped because it was felt that it may not be applicable to a number of service users

3

I felt stupid (self-criticism)

The concept was covered by an item on self-blame and the item ‘I felt guilty’

4

I chastised myself for my mistakes

This was covered by an item on ‘blame’

5

Dread (as opposed to anxious as being anxious can be a good thing at times)

This idea was covered by the following items

‘I felt panic / terror’ ‘I worried too much’ ‘I had difficulty stopping or controlling my worry’

6

I am bothered by the side-effects of my medication

This was dropped because it was felt that it may not be applicable to a number of service users

7

I am able to carry out day-to-day activities

This was covered by the following few items:

‘I have reasons to get out of bed in the morning’

‘I could not get started with the simplest everyday tasks’

8

Sleeping too much

The existing item on sleep was modified to encompass all sleep-related problems

9

Consumed by anger

The item ‘I felt consumed by anger’ was added