A qualitative study exploring the acceptability of a telehealth intervention for family members of people experiencing a first episode psychosis: PERCEPTION.

Abstract

Family members of people experiencing a first-episode psychosis (FEP) can experience high levels of carer burden, stigma, emotional challenges, and uncertainty. This indicates the need for support and psychoeducation. To address these needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, we developed a multidisciplinary, blended, telehealth intervention, incorporating psychoeducation and peer support, for family members of FEP service users: PERCEPTION (PsychoEducation for Relatives of people Currently Experiencing Psychosis using Telehealth, an In-person meeting, and ONline peer support). The aim of the study was to explore the acceptability of PERCEPTION for family members of people who have experienced an FEP. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted online via Zoom and audio recorded. Maximum variation sampling was used to recruit a sample balanced across age, gender, relatives' prior mental health service use experience, and participants' relationship with the family member experiencing psychosis. Data were analysed by hand using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes were produced: 'Developing confidence in understanding and responding to psychosis'; 'Navigating the small challenges of a broadly acceptable and desirable intervention'; 'Timely support enriches the intervention's meaning'; and 'Dealing with the realities of carer burden'. Broadly speaking, PERCEPTION was experienced as acceptable, with the convenient, safe, and supportive environment, and challenges in engagement being highlighted by participants. Data point to a gap in service provision for long-term self-care support for relatives to reduce carer burden. Providing both in-person and online interventions, depending on individuals' preference and needs, may help remove barriers for family members accessing help.