The needs of parents with a mental illness who have young children: an Australian perspective on service delivery options.
OBJECTIVE
This article discusses a collaborative approach to assisting parents with a mental illness who have children aged 5 years and under and explores themes found in the literature, focus groups with consumers and workshops with clinicians working with parents who have a mental illness.


METHODS
Focus groups and workshops were held for consumers and clinicians. The workshops included information about a proposed group intervention and discussions about themes found in the literature review and previous focus groups.


RESULTS
Using thematic analysis, the gaps identified in the focus groups and workshops were classified into five main categories--namely, interagency collaboration, a need for accessible support groups, a need for information and resources about mental illness, and parenting issues related to mental illness and independence. This information informed the development of a treatment package.


CONCLUSIONS
The content of the proposed treatment package has been informed by the findings of the literature review, focus groups and workshops. The sessions focus on topics about parenting and managing mental health and consumers are actively involved at the outset in their own care and the care of their child. The intervention will be trailed in clinical settings to establish efficacy and effectiveness.
Alakus
Carmel
C
Mental Health Research Institute of Victoria, Australia.
Conwell
Rebecca
R
Gilbert
Monica
M
Buist
Anne
A
Castle
David
D
D001315:Australia; D016241:Child of Impaired Parents / Q000523:psychology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004493:Education; D017144:Focus Groups; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services