Family engagement as part of managing patients with mental illness in primary care

38Citations
Citations of this article
216Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

The family unit plays a crucial role in patients with mental illness. Mental health problems have been associated with an assortment of dysfunctional social and psychological processes in one's family of origin, yet families are now expected to be responsible for the care of the patient with mental illness. There are many short- and long-term benefits of engaging the families in the care of patients with mental illness. However, the implementation of family engagement in patients with mental illness is fraught with challenges. The primary care provider possesses several distinctive characteristics that lend an advantage to successfully engaging the families of patients with mental illness, such as better accessibility, better rapport, and being associated with less stigma. Primary care providers could engage the family in various ways, ranging from basic functions such as psychoeducation and supporting the family's needs, to more specialised interventions such as family assessment and family therapy.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Ong, H. S., Fernandez, P. A., & Lim, H. K. (2021, May 1). Family engagement as part of managing patients with mental illness in primary care. Singapore Medical Journal. Singapore Medical Association. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2021057

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free