Variables related to psychosocial needs among people with severe mental illness using community services and their informal caregivers

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the needs of people with severe mental illness who live in the community and the needs of their informal caregivers, and to identify the variables associated with needs. Method: Two relates samples were evaluated: outpatients with mental illness (N=95) ant their informal caregivers (N=53). Results: The most frequently needs perceived by with people with mental illness involved symptoms, information, companionship and daytime activities; the quantity of needs were related to age, educational level, professional activity, not living with family, living in community residences, global functioning, disability, and health. The most frequently needs perceived by informal caregivers involved individual counseling and support for family, economical assistance, family associations, and respite care; the quantity of needs were related to coping and utilization of services, as well as the quantity of needs and disabilities of the relative with mental illness. Conclusions: People with mental illness and their informal caregivers have various types of needs, despite the support provided by their formal and informal networks.