title: The Effect of Respite Services on Carers of Individuals With Severe Mental Illness.
abstract: Many individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) require the support of an informal carer, such as a family member or close friend, to assist with everyday living. The difficulties and altered life circumstances experienced by individuals with SMI result in carers taking on significant responsibilities. The current study aimed to address the benefits to carers of several days relief from their caring responsibilities. Carers (N = 9) of a cohort of individuals with SMI who attended a therapeutic recreation initiative, Recovery Camp, were surveyed in late May 2015. A custom-designed instrument using open and closed questions was administered. Data were analyzed using the constant-comparative method. Participants reported negative health effects that they directly associated with their caring responsibilities. The experience of having a break when their care recipient attended Recovery Camp was positive for all participants, highlighting the need for respite services. Further research is required to explore the specific respite needs of individuals who provide care to those with SMI to reduce the burden experienced by these vulnerable populations. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54 (12), 33-38.].
authors.forename: Renee M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Brighton
authors.forename: Christopher
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Patterson
authors.forename: Ellie
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: Lorna
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Moxham
authors.forename: Dana
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Perlman
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sumskis
authors.forename: Tim
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Heffernan
mesh_terms: D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012144:Respite Care / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires