How families evaluate mental health professionals, resources, and effects of illness.

Evaluations by families (of chronically mentally ill individuals) of mental health professionals and resources were solicited through a mail survey. The respondents, largely better educated, white, and female, indicated a generally high level of dissatisfaction. Emotional support, information, and aftercare resources were identified as particular areas of concern. The survey findings present a challenge to mental health professionals to reconsider the effects of chronic mental illness on the family and the needs of the non-ill family members.