New research shows family-focused approach needed in mental health services
Media Release
28 July
Mental health services need to take a family and whanau-centred approach in order to reduce discrimination both towards and within families and whanau of people diagnosed with mental illness, new research shows.
The Foundation research, which is to be launched by the Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman on July 28, focuses on perspectives from both individuals with personal experience of mental illness and their families and whanau.
Titled Walk A Mile In Our Shoes, the research shows that families and whanau feel discriminated against by service staff and often struggle without enough support. Reported negative behaviours include not providing information, ignoring cultural and other worldviews, not consulting or including families and whanau and blaming or criticising parents.
Discrimination within families was also seen as a concern. However, through discussion families often became more self-aware, learning to practice better communication and be more supportive in their relationships. Like Minds, Like Mine was also recognised as having made a difference to people’s understanding.
The research identifies that discrimination can be recognised by the ‘five Ds’: behaviour that is derogatory, disrespectful, dismissive, demeaning and/or degrading.
“The research reveals that families and whanau often feel ill informed and excluded by services. A family-focused and whanau ora approach by services would lessen discrimination both towards and within families,” says Judi Clements, Chief Executive of the Foundation. “Families can provide better support by listening to each other’s needs, showing respect and always including the person who experiences mental health issues.”
The research concludes that improved dialogue with and within families, and also with mental health providers, could improve relationships and erode discrimination, which can be a fundamental barrier to recovery.
For media enquiries
Carrie Briffett
Communications Officer
Mental Health Foundation
09 966 5725 / 021 918 220
carrie "at" mentalhealth.org.nz
