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In Our Own Words
Consumers' views on the reality of consumer participation in mental health care
Val Goodwin
Centre for Psychiatric Nursing Research and Practice, School of Nursing, University of Melbourne; Psychiatric Nurse Consultant, Division of Psychiatric Services, Northeast Health Wangaratta, VIC
Brenda Happell
Professor of Contemporary Nursing, Department of Nursing and Health Studies, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton QLD
Abstract
The opportunity for consumers to participate in all stages of mental health service delivery, including the planning of their individual care, is now clearly enshrined in Australian mental health policy. Published research which examines the extent to which this has been realised in practice is limited, and the paucity is even greater for research reflecting the views of the consumers themselves.
This paper presents the findings of a qualitative study. In-depth interviews were undertaken with consumers of mental health services from two rural areas in Victoria to explore their views and opinions regarding their ability for genuine participation in the planning and delivery of their mental health care, and in particular on the role of nurses in facilitating this process. Data were analysed with the assistance of NVivo, using a content analysis approach. The main themes identified were: respect, encouragement, collaboration and systemic barriers.
The findings suggest that consumer participants identify a number of barriers which limit their ability to participate effectively. The implications for the role of the nurse in facilitating genuine consumer participation are discussed.
Keywords
Australia, attitudes, consumer participation, mental health, nurses, barriers
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