Consumers and Family Members

Consumers and family members need to be active participants in selecting appropriate mental health treatments for themselves or their loved ones. Although studies indicate that consumers and family members are generally aware and supportive of evidence-based practices (EBPs), they still require more thorough information concerning the use of EBPs. Consumers and family members also need an outlet to voice their questions and concerns regarding how EBPs fit with the current service delivery system, and how they meet the diverse needs of all individuals receiving mental health services.

Using the Site

Information and resources provided on this site are designed to educate consumers and family members about:

• Definitions of evidence-based practices
• Issues surrounding the implementation of evidence-based practices
• Specific evidence-based practices available for children, adults, and older adults
• Current state of evidence-based practice implementation activities

The Importance of Consumers and Families

Consumers and families can help address the growing problem of cultural disparities and other barriers that sit between individuals and their means to recovery by advocating for transformation of the mental health system. Requesting improved access to EBPs for consumers is a mean towards implementing personal recovery goals.

Consumers and families can be advocates to develop and promote the use of EBPs. A 2003 study by the National Alliance for Mental Illness concludes that consumers can individually and collectively:

• Facilitate research that will expedite equitable implementation of existing and new EBPs
• Play a significant role in providing services
• Play a lead role in promoting policies that support EBP implementation through the development and use of advocacy toolkits
• Influence provider adaptation of EBPs through the braod development and testing of resources that urge EBP consumerism
• Advance through the monitoring of EBPs

Consumer-led activities are essential to increasing partnerships and promoting shared interests among the consumer community.