Cand.psych., Ph.D., assistant professor
Rikke Amalie Agergaard Jensen
Involvement of Relatives, Mental Health Services, Region of Southern Denmark & Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark
| Project management | ||
| Project status | Open | |
| Data collection dates | ||
| Start | 06.01.2025 | |
| End | 31.12.2031 | |
Hvordan støttes pårørende til mennesker med psykisk sygdom? 2.0
Short summary
This study comprises a) a process evaluation and b) an outcome evaluation of a manualized group based psychoeducational program for relatives to individuals with mental illness. The program is delivered by a civil society organization and was developed in partnership with the regional psychiatry.
Rationale
Previous research has demonstrated that psychoeducation for relatives can be beneficial in enhancing their knowledge about mental illness and fostering a deeper understanding of their role as caregivers (Aakhus et al., 2009; Lobban et al., 2013). Furthermore, some studies suggest that psychoeducation with a broader focus on the caregiver role-including strategies for managing personal emotional challenges-may positively impact relatives' mental well-being (Ata & Doğan, 2018; Yesufu-Udechuku et al., 2015). However, no studies to date have examined the implementation of group-based psychoeducation co-developed by a civil society organization and regional psychiatric services. Specifically, there is a lack of evidence on whether the preliminary effectiveness of such interventions can be sustained during scale-up and whether the benefits persist over a three-month follow-up period. The evaluations aim to: • Assess the feasibility of delivering 100 courses annually. • Determine whether the preliminary effectiveness can be maintained during scale-up. • Examine the sustainability of effectiveness over time (three-month follow-up).
Description of the cohort
For the current evaluation, three groups of participants are identified: • Adult relatives/informal caregivers participating in the program. • Instructors conducting the program. • The project group overseeing the program and their partners. All participants are 18 years or older. All participants are also informed that it is completely voluntary to participate in the evaluation.
Data and biological material
Data collected using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, including questionnaires, logbooks, interviews, and workshops.