Needs of well siblings of persons with schizophrenia

The practical concerns of well siblings of persons with schizophrenia were examined in a descriptive study that included a needs assessment survey and a workshop designed to increase well siblings' knowledge about schizophrenia. A questionnaire focusing on needs for information, support, and practical skills was completed by 88 well siblings and 19 of their spouses. The results indicated a desire for more specific information about schizophrenia, particularly prognosis, and difficulties in communicating and problem solving with siblings with schizophrenia. Although respondents to the questionnaire were neutral about the need for support from other well siblings, participants at the workshop indicated that they found the opportunity to meet and share experiences with other well siblings to be the workshop's strongest feature. The study indicates that well siblings of persons with schizophrenia have specific needs that may differ from those of other family members.