Parents with mental illness – a qualitative study of identities and experiences with support services

This study explores how parents with mental illness construct their identities as mothers and fathers and their experiences with health and social care services.MethodThree focus groups with 19 participants were conducted in Finland and Scotland. Methods of discourse analysis have been used in to analyse the interview data.ResultsAdult service users want their parenting role recognized and supported. Parents have knowledge and skills which can be utilized and many have adopted an expert by experience identity.DiscussionBeing able to see oneself as a ‘good’ parent can be challenging but important. Parents may require support, but want to be included in the planning of their care. Services could make more use of the knowledge and skills parents and families have, and joint working could lessen parents’ anxieties.Implications for practiceMental health practitioners are in a key position in providing more family centred, resource focused care. Service user expertise should be acknowledged in clinical practice.
Source: Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research