Qualitative Study of NAMI Homefront Family Support Program

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Support
• Military Family Well-being
• Psychoeducation Programs

Background:

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness's Homefront program is a 6-week peer-taught course for families of military personnel.
• While associated with improved empowerment, coping, and knowledge, participant experiences require further exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify beneficial components and areas for improvement in the Homefront program.
• To compare participant and instructor experiences with online versus in-person program formats.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative data analysis of telephone interviews with 17 participants and 17 instructors.
• Exploration of online and in-person program delivery.

Main Results:

• Helpful components included group discussions, veteran-specific lessons, and coping skills workshops.
• Participants suggested extending the program duration.
• Online format offered convenience but some dissatisfaction with discussion engagement.
• Instructors found teaching rewarding and learned from the curriculum.

Conclusions:

• Understanding participant and instructor experiences can inform future psychoeducation program development.
• The Homefront program's core components are valued by military families.
• Program delivery, particularly online discussions, may benefit from refinement.