Community based mental health services, in the eye of community mental health professionals

Objectives: This study aims to provide views of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers and psychologists who work in community mental health centers (CMHCs) that provide services to individuals, as well as learn how to define their professional roles and responsibilities in these CMHCs. Methods: This study is designed as a qualitative research to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the views of research professionals. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 11 voluntary participants from eight CMHCs in Ankara. Collected data were subjected to a qualitative analysis. Results: The opinions of the professional staff are detailed under four headings: stigmatization, perspective of services, problems and suggestions. Conclusion: CMHC professionals generally are evaluating community-based services in a positive manner. Recommendations include implementing regulations for development of CMHCs that are regionally based with an individual focus and integration

Lessons Learned from Experiencing Mavi At Cafe (Blue Horse Cafe) during Six Years: A Qualitative Analysis of Factors Contributing to Recovery from the Perspective of Schizophrenia Patients

Objective: In recent years, the recovery-oriented approaches (along with experiences and thoughts of patients and patient's relatives) have been taken into account for establishing mental health services and policies. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to recovery, as observed from the perspective of schizophrenia patients working at The Blue Horse Cafe which was founded by the Federation of Schizophrenia Associations. Method: The sample for the study consisted of 24 patients who worked at The Blue Horse Cafe. A phenomenological approach was used in the study, whereby interviews with patients were analyzed qualitatively. Results: Certain common factors, which were expressed as having contributed to recovery, were identified from the perspective of schizophrenia patients. These factors are: 1-The fact that the setting is informal and welcoming without being constrictive; 2-Predominance of the human element; 3-Hope and encouragement; 4-Being cared about; 5-Being able to reach someone when in need of support; 6-Friendly sharing; 7-Having a purpose, assuming responsibility, and being motivated; and 8-Giving meaning to life. Conclusion: The findings may serve as a stimulus since schizophrenia patients that contribute to recovery give mental health professionals the opportunity to question there need for a change in their professional roles. Additionally, schizophrenia patients that have experienced The Blue Horse Cafe draw attention to certain points and these points can serve as a guide, especially for establishing the working methods of Community Mental Health Centers