The Impact of Deinstitutionalisation: Where to From Here?

A literature review was conducted on the process of deinstitutionalisation over the last 50 years with a view to identifying factors relevant to the quality of life for the seriously mentally ill returning to live in the community. Although the studies varied considerably in methodology and the areas covered were broad, clients consistently report an improved quality of life following deinstitutionalisation. However, several salient issues impacting on consumer satisfaction with return to the community emerged, these include:- type of housing and living environment-consumers ’ perceived quality of life- types of diagnosis or diagnoses-duration of illness- program funding arrangements. The studies indicate that poorly funded deinstitutionalisation has lead to an increase in homelessness and general instability while appropriately funded initiatives have lead to consumer satisfaction within various aspects of their community life. Suggestions are made concerning the enhancement of consumer satisfaction and quality of life for mental health patients returning to the community after extended inpatient treatment