Date of Conferral

8-1-2024

Date of Award

August 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Leslie Barnes-Young

Abstract

Reintegrating into the community after a psychiatric hospitalization can be a daunting task, and one that patients with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) may experience multiple times throughout their lifetime. While research has been conducted demonstrating the barriers to successful community reintegration after a psychiatric hospitalization, a better understanding of the lived experiences of inpatient social workers regarding the discharge process is necessary to continue to decrease the risk of re-hospitalization. The purpose of the study was to identify the perceived elements necessary to establish successful discharge plans such that patients with SPMI are less likely to experience subsequent re-hospitalization. Utilizing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, specific issues to be explored included: 1) barriers to successful community reintegration, 2) individualized discharge plans specific to each client’s discharge environment, and 3) support systems within the community. Interviews were conducted with 10 front-line discharge staff, social workers from inpatient psychiatric facilities. Data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Key findings of this study included the importance a team approach to discharge planning, inclusion of follow-up outpatient services, and outlined challenges in establishing appropriate placement upon discharge. Key findings also outlined a lack of outpatient services and medications, a lack of transportation, and highlighted several benefits support systems can provide, thus decreasing the risk of re-hospitalization. Results of this study provide insight to inpatient providers, including clinical psychologists, regarding re-hospitalization prevention among those with SPMI.

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