Tamil mental health system consumers’ views on the utilization of community mental health resources

Abstract

The goal of this study was to examine the views and perspectives of Tamil mental health outpatients and mental health care workers on the impact social activities and social network has on mentally ill patients’ general and mental health. The study was conducted at an outpatient mental health program at a Canadian hospital, using the grounded theory approach. Data were collected through questionnaires, document review and semi-structured interviews. Results showed that the mental health program had a positive impact on the mental health outpatients’ quality of life, including improvement in mental health, physical health, social network and social skills. The importance of cultural integration in mental health programs was discussed. Furthermore, barriers in accessing and utilizing mental health resources were highlighted and recommendations for program development were provided. Mental health programs can be effective in helping to improve the quality of life for Tamil consumers of outpatient mental health services.