Evaluating the mental health system and its impact on families of patients: a case study of Mathari Hospital.

Abstract

This research study was aimed at evaluating the mental health system and its impacts on families of patients. It was a case study of Mathari hospital.

The study also sought to evaluate the challenges faced by patients, health workers and families of the patients. By bringing out the various challenges, the study hoped to be able to draw the attention of key stake holders in the health sector so that they can be able to address the issues and spearhead the much needed change.

The target population of this study was 10patients, 10 health workers and 10 family members at the Mathari hospital

The research is both qualitative and quantitative in nature. This study used primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected using interview schedules.

Data collected was analyzed systematically using pie charts, doughnuts and column graphs in order to come to an informative conclusion.

The study found out that more needs to be done by the government being the key support in the mental health system as general dissatisfaction was high.

The study realized that there is an existing shortage in the number of psychiatric nurses and doctors. Deficiency in the level of awareness about mental health was also quite high. The study confirmed that mental illness has impacted families of affected individuals in various negative ways. These include; discrimination by members of the public, and forceful changes in their routine way of life. The study recommends: Review of the government's commitment towards supporting mental health, Mental hospitals should review their operational policies and design and implementation of a public awareness campaign at Mathari and the country at large.