Prevalence of parents within an adult mental health service: Census results 2008–2011

Abstract

The objective of this article is to determine the prevalence of parents of children (aged 0-17 years) within a mental health service system and gather contextual data regarding this population. The study uses a census approach. The Census is conducted annually across Central Coast Adult Mental Health Services, NSW, Australia. All five community mental health teams and four acute inpatient units within the service participate, with each team completing Census forms for active clients identified as parents on Census day. The Census form collects data on parents and children including demographic data, parental diagnosis, parental contact and risk factors. Consecutive data shows 25-28% of active clients are parents. Annually, at least 400 children are identified; approximately 60% reside permanently with their parent with a mental illness. The Census is a valuable tool to determine the prevalence of parenthood. Moreover, it collects contextual data on this population. Data show an emerging relationship between parental diagnosis and parental contact. A picture of level of risk across the system has also been highlighted. Results add to the evidence regarding parental mental illness and circumstances of these families. The data clearly articulate a large need for interventions for children of parents with a mental illness (COPMI) within this population, given the high proportion of children who permanently reside with their parent with a mental illness.