Exploring the impacts of a carers’ psycho-education group : personal insights from the family of people with early psychosis

Introduction Carers (family and friends) are simultaneously impacted by a loved one’s experience of psychosis and influential in supporting recovery from psychosis. This study examines carers’ experiences and perceived impacts of a psycho-education group within one Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) service in England. Methods Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with seven carers who had attended a psycho-education group. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) for which a small sample is recommended. Results Participants highlighted the importance of carers’ early access to information and of working around barriers to attendance at psycho-education groups. They perceived that their attendance at the group had enhanced their confidence and independence in supporting loved ones with their symptoms, encouraged greater involvement in care planning, and overall improved carer wellbeing. Further, sharing experiences had increased their understanding of psychosis and helped with tackling stigma and feelings of shame. Implications and areas for further research are discussed.