Abstract:

Consumers of mental health services and their family members are increasingly recognized as critical stakeholders in the provision of meaningful community-based care. Their perceptions, along with the perceptions of mental health professionals, will provide a better foundation for planning and delivering services in the community. This study compared the attitudes, service needs, and perceived housing needs of a group of matched respondents. The three groups were equally optimistic about the system as a whole and largely agreed on the value of independent community living. They often disagreed on services and housing for specific consumers, and in their perceptions of the importance of different characteristics and barriers to community life. Implications for collaboration among the groups are discussed.