Support for children and families living with a family member with mental illness

Research Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)The prevalence of mental illness means that many children and adults may be affected at some point in their lives, which, in turn, means that many people may live with a family member who has a mental illness. This case study investigated the support available to, and accessed by, children and families living with a family member with mental illness, in the context of related mental health and family support policies. The thesis was informed by theories of social support, stigma, and recognition, within an ecosystems framework. This exploratory study aimed to understand the lived experience of parents, carers, and family members concerning the sources of the support they received, and their perceptions of factors that facilitated or impeded access to support. The perceptions of family workers were also investigated. Data was gathered from four sources: documents setting out policies concerning mental health and family support; in-depth interviews with family members; focus groups with family workers; and responses by parents and carers to standardised questionnaires. The qualitative nature of the study involved prolonged engagement with parent and carer participants, with two interviews being conducted with them over time. Analysis of the mental health policies and family support policies at the federal and state (New South Wales) levels highlighted the shift to economic rationalist approaches which have placed increasing responsibility on those who live with someone with mental illness. Analysis also highlighted the complex bureaucracy that families and practitioners needed to negotiate. Analysis of interviews showed that participants turned first to their family for support, with family workers and other professionals also perceived as supportive. Participants who were mothers wanted to be seen, and strived to seen, as ‘good’ parents but worried about the child protection service taking their children. Family workers focused on strengths within families, and were perceived to be significant in the support they provided. This study contributes to an increased understanding of the influences of mental health and family support policies on service providers, and on families with children when a family member has a mental illness. It has also documented the lived experiences of mental illness of mothers, grandmothers and a foster carer, demonstrating their reliance on family, and friends, and awareness of their family needs. The study demonstrates the need for local, accessible community-based services with practitioners who can undertake home visits in a flexible and ongoing way that promotes family strengths and confidence. The methodology and findings of this study contribute to the fields of social work, family services, and mental health