[Overcoming mental health crises at home: a qualitative study on the perspectives of people with mental illness].

Abstract

Overcoming mental health crises at home: a qualitative study on the perspectives of people with mental illness Abstract: Background: In recent years, various outreach psychiatric care models have been established in Germany and their effectiveness has been proven. Despite these promising results and evident benefits, these care models have not yet been widely implemented. Aim: This qualitative study investigates the key factors and experiences of psychiatric home treatment from the perspective of people with mental illnesses in Germany. Methods: Episodic, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 individuals diagnosed with mental illnesses according to ICD-10 (F2X, F3X, F6X), all of whom were receiving care within outreach mental health services: psychiatric outpatient clinics, community psychiatric nursing, Assertive Community Treatment, and home treatment equivalent to inpatient care. The interviews were analyzed using thematic coding based on Flick's methodology. Results: The study identifies four key factors: role of the caregiver, therapeutic measures, living environment and treatment characteristics. Conclusion: The results emphasize the central role of the caregiver, who has a positive influence on the success of the therapy, particularly through empathy, humanity and professional competence. Individualized measures and support in the living environment strengthen autonomy and stability. The key factors indicate that further development of the home treatment is necessary.