Experiences of family members when a parent is hospitalized for their mental illness: A qualitative systematic review

Background: A considerable proportion of people attending mental health services are parents. Parental mental illness can be challenging for all family members and potentially poses a risk to children’s wellbeing. The hospitalization of the parent and subsequent separation from children may be a particularly challenging time. The aim of this paper was to review qualitative studies of family members’ experiences when parents were hospitalized for their mental illness. Methods: : This systematic review followed Cochrane Collaboration and PRISMA guidelines. A search was performed with keywords relating to parents, mental illness, psychiatric treatment, inpatient units, family members and experiences. Databases included CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, ProQuest, MEDLINE, PubMed and Scopus. Quality assessment was undertaken using an expanded version of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Thematic synthesis was conducted on the included papers. Results: : Eight papers were identified. The quality of these papers ranged between low/medium and high. Themes within the findings related to experiences of pressure and responsibility, the need for information and guidance, children’s emotional needs, and the parent-child bond while hospitalized. Conclusion: The limited research in this area indicates that the needs of families are not being met when a parent is hospitalized for their mental illness. There is a considerable need for adequate models of care, family-focused training for staff, and psychoeducational resources for families. Additional research in this area is essential to understand the experiences of different family members during this vulnerable time.