Combination of interventions support young adults’ independence in psychiatric rehabilitation
The study emphasizes that a key factor in rehabilitation is the collaborative relationship between mental health service users and professionals. "What matters is not only which psychiatric rehabilitation interventions we use but also how we implement them in collaboration with the client," Jonna Tolonen points out.
The research examined a in a residential setting combination intervention in psychiatric rehabilitation targeted at young adults with severe mental health disorders. Additionally, the reliability of the Finnish version of the INSPIRE measure, designed to measure recovery support, was assessed.
A total of 39 young adults participating in the combination intervention took part in the study. The average duration of psychiatric rehabilitation was slightly over two years.
The results showed a significant increase in independent living: at the start of the intervention, one-third of the participants lived independently, while by the end, this had risen to 70%, and in the follow-up phase, nearly 80%. Furthermore, depressive symptoms decreased, and daily functioning improved.
Long-term follow-up revealed that over 80% of participants felt they had partially recovered from their mental illness. However, fewer than half rated their quality of life as good, indicating that recovery from severe mental health disorders is a complex and prolonged process.
The INSPIRE measure is based on the recovery orientation approach, which has been scientifically recognized as a useful method in mental health work. To support the broader implementation of recovery orientation in Finland, practical tools such as assessment methods are needed. The dissertation findings suggest that the INSPIRE measure is a useful tool for Finnish mental health care. However, its psychometric properties in the Finnish sample differed somewhat from the original version, indicating a need for further refinement of its structure.
The doctoral research was funded by the University of Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, and Pohde (VTR funding), as well as the Emil Aaltonen Foundation.