Being held through pain: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of experiences of receiving a peer support intervention for family members of individuals with mental illness

Background: Since the deinstitutionalisation movement, many families have taken on the responsibility of caring for their family members with severe mental illness (SMI). Despite being recognised as a fundamental resource, family caregivers frequently report that the support they are receiving from mental health services is inadequate. Aim: To explore the lived experiences of receiving a Family Recovery Peer Support (FRPS) pilot intervention for family caregivers of individuals with SMI. Method: The experiences of receiving FRPS, a 6-session intervention, were explored through 12 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with family members. Findings: Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, two superordinate themes were identified as follows: 1) 'You feel all their pain' and 2) 'A vital experience of growth and healing through relationship'. Findings revealed that having a family member suffer from SMI was a traumatic experience. All 12 interviewees reported that receiving FRPS was beneficial. The significance of genuine understanding in the context of experiential similarity was repeatedly identified as invaluable. Analyses revealed a sequential journey of recovery, and post-traumatic growth, across family members' narratives, which led to improved relationships. Conclusion: Having a family member suffer from severe mental illness was a traumatic experience. Findings from the present study support the roll-out of FRPS as an effective intervention for family caregivers of individuals with SMI. In order to develop more effective Mental Health Services, future policy initiatives should take family caregivers' views and experiences into account.