Cooke, Julie (2013) The transition from hospital to community living from mental health patients and carers. DClinPsych thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This thesis explores the transition from hospital to community living for mental
health patients and carers. This period presents a number of challenges and risks
for patients and the support from family members throughout this period is
invaluable. Through further exploration of the discharge process and period, this
thesis considers how both patients and carers can be better supported to manage
the challenges and increase the likelihood of a successful transition.
The first paper is a systematic literature review investigating the predictors of
suicide up to a year after discharge from mental health inpatient services. After
database and manual searches were complete, thirteen studies met inclusion
criteria and were reviewed and critically evaluated. Despite inconsistent findings
across studies, the review identified some predictors of post-discharge suicide
which have been replicated within and across cultures. Clinical implications in
relation to thorough discharge planning and maintaining continuity of care are
discussed.
The second paper reports on a qualitative exploration of family members’
experiences of the discharge process from inpatient mental health services. Six
family members were recruited and interviewed using a semi-structured method.
The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The three
phenomenological themes emerging from participants’ accounts indicated that the
discharge process was characterised by isolation, fear and exhaustion. The themes
are discussed, explored and considered in relation to how services can increase
carers’ involvement and strengthen their position in the discharge process.
The final paper reflects on insights into the world of carers gained through the
research process, with a focus on loss and grief in caring. Comparing the processes
of therapy and research, the paper considers how research offered greater freedom
to ‘hear’ experiences and the potential advantages of transferring these reflections
to the therapy room.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (DClinPsych)
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Community mental health services -- Research, Families of the mentally ill -- Services for, Caregivers -- Psychology, Mentally ill -- Care
Official Date:	May 2013
Dates:	Date Event May 2013 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Psychology
Thesis Type:	DClinPsych
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Kucharska, Jo; Neal, Adrian; Hancock, Vicky
Description:	Completed in conjunction with Coventry University. School of Health and Social Sciences
Extent:	xvi, 167 leaves.
Language:	eng

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