Community-Based Group Psychoeducation for Informal Caregivers of Individuals with Mental Illness: A Single-Arm Pilot Study of Feasibility and Preliminary Effectiveness

Abstract

Purpose: This single-arm, pre–post pilot study assessed the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of community-based group psychoeducation for informal caregivers (18+) of individuals with a range of mental illnesses in Denmark. The intervention was delivered by social work and healthcare professionals and aimed to improve well-being and prevent burnout. Keeping within the medical research council's framework for evaluating complex interventions, we focused on identifying key uncertainties. Method: Of 150 participants enrolled in the intervention, 84 and 56 completed pre- and postintervention questionnaires on demographics, acceptability, well-being, burnout, and coping. A convergent mixed methods design was applied, with quantitative and qualitative findings integrated at the reporting level. Results: The intervention demonstrated preliminary effectiveness in improving well-being but faced challenges in feasibility regarding participation rates and reach. Participants valued group processes, though some reported adverse effects. Conclusion: Future studies should address participation challenges and explore group dynamics before a full-scale evaluation.

Keywords

Caregiver burden psychoeducation civil society organization multisector partnerships program evaluation convergent mixed methods design

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