Supportive versus demanding intervention programs for young adults with severe mental illness

Abstract

Two rehabilitation programs for young adults ages 18 to 30 with severe mental illness were launched in Israel in 2009. Both programs adhered to the Illness Management and Recovery approach, but one emphasized emotional support and containment (supportive model program), and the other emphasized practical support to promote independence (demanding model program). A formative and developmental evaluation of both programs was conducted. Qualitative and quantitative findings indicated that both programs have merits, suggesting that they could be combined to formulate a best practice tailored for the unique needs of this population.