AIM: This study aimed at the systematic assessment of the educational and service needs among relatives of psychiatric patients. METHOD: A postal survey was carried out on a sample drawn from the members of the associations of relatives of mentally ill people in Germany and Austria. Data collected from parents (n = 509) and spouses (n = 54) of patients with schizophrenia or affective disorders were analysed. RESULTS: More than half of the participants expressed the need for more support and complained of not having enough opportunities to relieve the burden imposed on them. Further, families have a strong desire for more information about the disorder as well as practical advice concerning how to cope with the patient. CONCLUSIONS: The results document the great need for services among families and the need for enhancement of quality of care and negotiated partnership between families and professionals.
AIM: This study aimed at the systematic assessment of the educational and service needs among relatives of psychiatricpatients. METHOD: A postal survey was carried out on a sample drawn from the members of the associations of relatives of mentally ill people in Germany and Austria. Data collected from parents (n = 509) and spouses (n = 54) of patients with schizophrenia or affective disorders were analysed. RESULTS: More than half of the participants expressed the need for more support and complained of not having enough opportunities to relieve the burden imposed on them. Further, families have a strong desire for more information about the disorder as well as practical advice concerning how to cope with the patient. CONCLUSIONS: The results document the great need for services among families and the need for enhancement of quality of care and negotiated partnership between families and professionals.