Telling our story: consumer perceptions of their role in mental health education.
OBJECTIVE
This Australian study provides insight into the meaning that former consumers involved in the education and training of mental health staff attributed to their role.


METHODS
Interviews were conducted with 11 consumer educators and were analysed using a qualitative phenomenological approach.


RESULTS
Five themes emerged from the interviews including: giving of self; tokenism; learned versus lived experience; voyeurism; and lack of clear expectations.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings highlight the need for ongoing critical review of the way in which consumer educators are engaged in the education and training of mental health professionals.
Meehan
Tom
T
The Park Centre for Mental Health, University of Queensland Wacol, Qld, Australia.
Glover
Helen
H
D000328:Adult; D001290:Attitude; D003256:Community Participation / Q000523:psychology*; D003479:Curriculum; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D004500:Education, Graduate; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D008134:Long-Term Care / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012380:Role; D012650:Self Disclosure; D012803:Sick Role