title: Group programmes in early intervention services.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Group interventions can be a developmentally appropriate treatment option for young people with mental illness; however, there is a paucity of research into these programmes. This study had three aims: (i) to document and compare both clinicians' and clients' reasons for referral to the Orygen Youth Health Recovery Group Program (RGP); (ii) to describe demographic characteristics of patients referred to the RGP; and (iii) to delineate and differentiate characteristics of clients who do and do not engage with the RGP's activities.
  
  
  METHODS
  Referral and assessment data from 212 clients referred to the RGP between July 2001 and November 2003 were collated and analysed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Main reasons for referral to the programme were relationships followed by vocational/educational issues. Similarly, the most common goals identified by clients were around relationships, followed by time use and vocational issues. Clients referred to the RGP but who did not attend were more likely to have a psychotic disorder, to be older, unemployed and have difficulties with time management and substance use.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Social functioning and vocation are important considerations in facilitating young people's recovery from mental illness. Such issues can be addressed within the context of psychosocial recovery group programmes. Further research is needed not only to address problems regarding client engagement but also to evaluate outcomes from participation in such programmes.
authors: Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Australia. smcotton@unimelb.edu.au
authors: Sue M
authors: SM
authors: Cotton
authors: Marni
authors: M
authors: Luxmoore
authors: Gina
authors: G
authors: Woodhead
authors: Dianne D
authors: DD
authors: Albiston
authors: John F M
authors: JF
authors: Gleeson
authors: Patrick D
authors: PD
authors: McGorry
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003710:Demography / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D061345:Early Medical Intervention / Q000379:methods*; D004522:Educational Status; D004651:Employment / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods*; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*