TY - JOUR PY - 2016// TI - Service user and family member perspectives on services for mental health, substance use/addiction, and violence: a qualitative study of their goals, experiences and recommendations JO - International journal of mental health systems A1 - Haskell, Rebecca A1 - Graham, Kathryn A1 - Bernards, Sharon A1 - Flynn, Andrea M. A1 - Wells, Samantha SP - 9 EP - 9 VL - 10 IS - N2 - BACKGROUND: Mental health and substance use disorders (MSD) are significant public health concerns that often co-occur with violence. To improve services that address MSD and violence [MSD(V)], it is critical to understand the perspectives of those most affected, people who have sought help for MSD(V) (i.e., "service users"), especially those with co-occurring issues, as well as their family members.

METHODS: We conducted structured interviews with 73 service users and 41 family members of service users in two Ontario communities (one urban, one rural) regarding their goals related to help-seeking, positive and negative experiences, and recommendations for improving systems of care.

RESULTS: Overall, participants expressed a need for services that: (1) are respectful, nonjudgmental, and supportive, help service users to feel more 'normal' and include education to reduce stigma; (2) are accessible, varied and publicly funded, thereby meeting individual needs and addressing equity concerns at a systems level; and (3) are coordinated, holistic and inclusive of family members who often support service users.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings provide a rich understanding of how service users and their families perceive services for MSD(V) issues and identify key ways to better meet their needs.

Language: en

LA - en SN - 1752-4458 UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s13033-016-0040-3 ID - ref1 ER -