Supporting Caregivers During Their Child's Acute Psychiatric Hospitalization: A Needs Assessment Survey

Psychiatric admission for youth can be a highly stressful experience for caregivers. Groups are one form of caregiver support in the inpatient setting, though evidence is limited. We conducted a needs assessment survey of caregivers of psychiatrically hospitalized children and adolescents to better understand caregiver support needs and their interest in participating in groups. Of 78 caregivers, individualized care plan information was the most frequently received and desired support. 51% reported being extremely likely to attend a caregiver group on parenting skills. Groups were also rated the most helpful among other evidence-based forms of caregiver supports (n = 22; 50%). Most frequently reported barriers to group include travel, work, and time. In conclusion, while their child's individualized care plan information remains the priority, many caregivers still identify groups as an important form of inpatient support though may face various logistical barriers.