Role of Self-Help in the Recovery Process

The Role of Self-Help in the Recovery Process

Investigators: Mary E. DeMasi, Ph.D., Sharon Carpinello, Ph.D., Edward Knight, Ph.D., Lynn Videka-Sherman, Ph.D., Carla Sofka, Ph.D., and Fred Markowitz, Ph.D.

PROJECT GOALS

The aims of this study are to:

(1) develop a conceptual model of recovery, and test to determine empirically the extent proposed facets of the model are inter-related;
(2) examine the extent participation in self-help groups and traditional services (therapy, hospitalization) contributes to the multiple dimensions of recovery;
(3) investigate the ways individuals are referred to self-help groups;
(4) identify the most persuasive referral sources.

This study aims to gather data on recovery-focused outcomes by building on an earlier project, Self-Selection Distinguishing Factors: Participants and Non Participants of Mental Health Self-Help Groups.

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AND RESULTS

Data from a statewide, two-wave mail survey were analyzed to address the goals of this study:

1. A conceptual model of the recovery process was developed based on experiential knowledge of service recipients and previously conducted research. The model was supported by survey findings. Three fundamental domains were identified in the realms of physical, social and emotional well-being . The conceptual model was tested over a 12 month interval and results obtained remained consistent, thereby reflecting the stability of the conceptual model.

2. Findings on the role of self-help in the recovery process indicate that traditional services have a slight negative impact on self-concept and social outcomes. Since the findings also suggest that an important link exists between self-concept and social outcomes, further analyses were conducted to examine:

(1) the effects of individual beliefs about stigma on self-evaluation as measured by esteem and self-efficacy; and the effects upon quality of life as measured by interpersonal relationships and economic status, and
(2) the reciprocal relationship of symptoms, self-evaluation and quality of life.

The relationships among symptoms, self-evaluation and quality of life proved significant. The effects of one's beliefs about stigma on self concepts varied based upon individual symptoms.

3. There is significant difference between members and non-members of self-help groups in the ways referral sources are used.

4. The most persuasive methods that influenced individuals to join self-help groups came from recommendations made by peers and through distribution of printed materials describing self-help groups. Information about self-help groups offered by professionals was less effective.

SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDINGS/POLICY IMPLICATIONS

These results have influenced decisions regarding benefits offered in the Prepaid Mental Health Plan, the OMH managed care initiative. Further, clients' symptom related distress has been incorporated as a key indicator of the OMH Performance Outcome Monitoring System to assess the performance of managed care networks. The findings from this study should become increasingly useful as consumers, states and others in the mental health field promote widespread use of self-help groups. This study represents a collaboration between state administrators, consumer groups and researchers, and has produced significant findings that have been used by OMH in the design of a statewide mental health services program.

Project completed.
Edited 12/16/02

Presentations:

DeMasi, M.E., Markowitz, F.E., Carpinello, S.E., Videka-Sherman, L., Knight, E., & Sofka, C. (November, 1997) Examination of a recovery model and the impact of self-help. Paper presented at the 125th meeting of the American Public Health Association, Indianapolis.

Knight, E. (1997). Mutual support as a clinical tool. Presentation given at the Fourth Annual Florida Conference on Co-occurring Mental- and Substance-Related Disorders. Orlando.

Knight, E. (1997). Empowering the disempowered. Symposium presented at the First Annual Veteran's Integrated 3 Service Network, Veterans Administration, Bronx, NY.

Markowitz, F.E., DeMasi, M.E., & Carpinello, S.E. (August, 1997). Modeling processes in recovery from mental illness: An analysis of the relationships between stigma, symptoms, self-concept, and quality of life. Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Sociological Association. Toronto.

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