[Information and support needs of the family of psychiatric patients].
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed at the systematic assessment of the educational and service needs among relatives of psychiatric patients.


METHODS
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.
Angermeyer
M C
MC
Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie, Universität Leipzig. schb@server3.medizin.uni-leipzig.de
Diaz Ruiz de Zárate
J
J
Matschinger
H
H
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001317:Austria; D017028:Caregivers / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D005858:Germany; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000453:epidemiology*; D012944:Social Support