Perspectives of Indonesian Caregivers and Health Practitioners on Community-Based Mental Health Services

The establishment of integrated mental health services (IMHS) can downgrade a substantial gap in mental health psychotherapy. Although the hurdles of IMHS implementation are well-known, barely any research has been conducted on the viewpoint of satisfaction and expectations of caregivers for people with mental diseases (CPWMDs) towards IMHS. Identifying and analyzing the perspective of CPWMD as an IMHS service user is crucial for closing the gap and achieving community mental health optimization. Purpose. This study intends to investigate the perspective of Indonesian caregivers and health practitioners on community-based mental health services. Method. The study was conducted in four IMHS with twenty-three CPWMD, and families who have a relative with a mental disorder assisted them in using IMHS. Through in-depth interviews with caregivers, this study collected qualitative data. Triangulation of sources and techniques is to ensure reliability by undertaking focus group discussions (FGDs) with eight health workers and eight health cadres. The results of data collection were transcribed and then analyzed thematically. During the analysis procedure, repeating the data recording process aims to obtain complete information. Results. The CPWMDs were satisfied since their assistance supported them in overcoming mental health issues in the family. Even though pharmaceuticals and psychotherapy are available at no cost, they consider that psychological procedures are necessary but receive less attention. Significant challenges that impede access to IMHS include the restricted availability of health workers for patient follow-up, the frequent depletion of medication supplies, the absence of a private space for consultations, and stigma. Conclusion. The IMHS are accessible to the community and positively affects the patient's mental health. A psychotherapy supply management system, a confidential consultation space, and an online self-help group be developed. Additional training among health workers and health cadres in psychoeducation is significantly critical to diminish the stigma.