Psychoeducation: Wider implications for the field of mental health

Mental illnesses affect a substantial proportion of our population. The significance of psychoeducation- the education of a person (and their families) with a psychiatric disorder, in subject areas that serve the goals of treatment and rehabilitation, has been supported by multiple clinical studies. Recent scientific evidence recommends a modality that combines psychopharmacology with psychoeducation for an optimal clinical outcome for many mental health disorders (for example, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder). Researchers have offered plausible mechanisms through which psychoeducation may have a therapeutic effect on the mentally ill. Despite the growing evidence in its favor, few patients and families in United States are ever offered a “comprehensive” psycho-educational program. In the few instances where it is offered, the approach leaves much to be desired. Multiple policies, organizational, socio-political and ethno-cultural factors come in the way of an effective delivery of psychoeducation. Recommendations are made regarding practical steps through which psychoeducation could be made easily accessible.