title: "Others had similar problems and you were not alone": evaluation of an open-group mutual aid model in cardiac rehabilitation.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Dealing with psychological and social issues is an important aspect of comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This study aims to evaluate the use of an open-group mutual aid model facilitated by a social worker and occupational therapist in a secondary prevention CR program.
  
  
  METHODS
  A mixed-method study, using questionnaires, focus group data, and reflective interviews of group facilitators, was used to evaluate the program.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Key themes emerging from this study were (1) the need for provision of hope; (2) a desire for structure and support; (3) appreciation of support of fellow group participants; and (4) the need for individuals to review, process, and interpret their illness trajectory.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In this single site study, an open-group model using a mutual aid model was acceptable and helpful as a method to facilitate adjustment after an acute cardiac event. Further evaluation of this approach using experimental methods is warranted.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Therapy Department, St George Hospital, Kogarah, New South Wales, Australia.
authors.forename: Maryse
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Arndt
authors.forename: Fiona
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Murchie
authors.forename: Anthony M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Schembri
authors.forename: Patricia M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Davidson
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D017144:Focus Groups; D006126:Group Processes; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017146:Models, Organizational; D009013:Morale; D009517:New South Wales; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration; D010379:Peer Group; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012944:Social Support; D012947:Social Work / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires