Building Client and Caregiver Engagement Within a Community-Based Mental Health Service for Adults With a Dual Diagnosis
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Authors
Almas, Andrea
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Dual Diagnosis , Intellectual Disability , Mental Health , Client and Caregiver Engagement , Health Care Services
Alternative Title
Abstract
Adults with a dual diagnosis (an intellectual disability coexisting with a mental health problem and/or challenging behaviour) have complex health care needs that are often not adequately met by the health care system. Engagement of individuals with an intellectual disability and their caregivers in health care has been highlighted as a critical factor in developing services that better meet client needs; however, very few studies have focused on the engagement of individuals with a dual diagnosis in a health care setting. The overall purpose of this research was to explore the principles and opportunities that can be implemented to build active and meaningful client and caregiver engagement within a specialized community-based mental health service for adults with a dual diagnosis. Individual level and program level services were addressed. This dissertation presents the results of two distinct studies. A participatory action research (PAR) study explored principles and actions that can be applied to build active and meaningful client and caregiver engagement. The four themes that emerged from the PAR study --Collaboration, Communication, Empowering Environment, and Tailored Service -- offered a way to conceptualize client and caregiver engagement. Each of these themes offered practical engagement strategies at the individual service and program service levels. A subsequent proof of concept study offered preliminary evidence for the application of several practical strategies in supporting client and caregiver engagement, with impact at both the personal and practical levels. This research addresses a knowledge gap by providing insights and possibilities for implementing client and caregiver engagement within a specialized community-based mental health service for adults with a dual diagnosis. The engagement strategies have the potential to create future opportunities that can engage, empower, and provide a voice to clients and their caregivers, and positively impact the health care received. Implications for practice, policy, leadership, and future research are provided.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.