2007) ‘The Needs of Parents with a Mental Illness Who Have Young Children: An Australian Perspective on Service Delivery Options

Background and aims: This article discusses a collaborative approach to assisting parents with a mental illness who have children aged 5 years and under and ex-plores themes found in the literature, focus groups with consumers and workshops with clinicians working with parents who have a mental illness. Method: Focus groups and workshops were held for consumers and clinicians. The workshops included information about a proposed group intervention and discussions about themes found in the literature review and previous focus groups. Results: Using thematic analysis, the gaps identifi ed in the focus groups and workshops were classifi ed into fi ve main categories – namely, interagency col-laboration, a need for accessible support groups, a need for information and resources about mental illness, and parenting issues related to mental illness and independence. This information informed the development of a treatment package. Conclusion: The content of the proposed treatment package has been informed by the fi ndings of the literature review, focus groups and workshops. The sessions focus on topics about parenting and managing mental health and consumers are actively involved at the outset in their own care and the care of their child. The inter-vention will be trailed in clinical settings to establish effi cacy and effectiveness