Caregivers’ Experience with Children with Mental Health Needs: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: A child with a mental health problem complicates the ability to manage several issues that can be addressed through planning involving the entire family. Objectives: The present study sought to explore the needs and gaps that caregivers face in developing and designing evidence-based services. Methods: This qualitative study used conventional content analysis through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. The Granheim and Landman method was used to analyze the data. Nine caregivers and six healthcare professionals (HCPs) were interviewed via semi-structured interviews (SSIs) in Iran in 2022. Results: Psychological and emotional problems, family conflicts, social exclusion, and a lack of information about mental illnesses were identified. An integrated care model based on family-centered mental health, parenting, and family therapy services compatible with Iranian culture, the economy, and society is crucial for creating a national care strategy. This strategy should be based on the experience of the best countries while simultaneously considering the needs of Iranian families. Specific priorities include education and support services, counseling, learning and development opportunities, and financing. Conclusions: The physical, emotional, psychological, and practical demands placed on caregivers mean that they need professional support, better knowledge about mental health, and good support systems. Transformed caregiving practices and caregiver support plans are essential in transforming children’s lives, supporting families, and strengthening mental health care. All of these efforts are crucial to creating the necessary conditions for care provision in the Iranian context.