Peer-Reviewed Journal Details
Mandatory Fields
MacGabhann, L;Dunne, S;McGowan, P;Amering, M
2018
January
Mental Health Review Journal
Democratic communities: evaluating trialogue for mental health stakeholders
Published
2 ()
Optional Fields
CURRENT PSYCHIATRIC PRACTICE GENDER-DIFFERENCES PSYCHOSIS SERVICES CARERS POWER
23
94
109
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the usefulness of the first Trialogue Meetings throughout Ireland for individuals from mental health communities by using a participatory action research (PAR) framework. Design/methodology/approach Seven communities participated in monthly Trialogue Meetings as a community-based PAR project. A mixed-methods PAR evaluation was performed on data from 48 participants (service users, service providers, family members/friends and interested community members) who participated in the final Trialogue Meetings. Findings Participants identified that Trialogue increased knowledge/awareness of mental health, irrespective of gender, mental health role, age or employment status. Trialogue Meetings provided a supportive environment for many, where men may be comfortable talking and where service providers may benefit from exposure to broader perspectives on mental health. Participants also perceived that Trialogue Meetings deconstructed pre-existing mental health power structures, allowed them to understand mental health from different perspectives and express themselves better. Research limitations/implications The study identifies barriers to Trialogue efficacy such as low service provider engagement and political dynamics extraneous to the meetings themselves. Practical implications Where desirable conditions are present, Trialogue Meetings appear to be sustainable community development initiatives where pre-existing mental health power dynamics may be levelled and knowledge/communication surrounding mental health may be enhanced. Originality/value This is the first large-scale evaluation of the innovative Trialogue method among mental health stakeholders using a PAR approach.
BINGLEY
1361-9322
10.1108/MHRJ-08-2017-0032
Grant Details