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Characteristics of persons with mental illness in a representative payee program
K J Conrad1, M D Matters, P Hanrahan
1Department of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 60612, USA. kjconrad@uic.edu
Psychiatric Services (Washington, D.C.)
|September 15, 1998
Summary
Clients in the representative payee program for severe mental illness often face significant financial distress and dependence. These individuals typically have schizophrenia, homelessness, and lack financial skills, relying heavily on Social Security benefits.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Social Work
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Severe mental illness (SMI) often co-occurs with significant financial challenges.
- Community mental health agencies provide various support services, including financial management assistance.
- Representative payeeship programs aim to help vulnerable individuals manage their finances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the characteristics of clients in a representative payeeship program with those not participating.
- To identify factors associated with participation in financial management programs for individuals with SMI.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of client data over a two-year period.
- Inclusion of clients with severe mental illness from a community mental health agency.
- Assessment of demographic, diagnostic, and financial indicators.
Main Results:
- Representative payee program participants exhibited greater disability and financial distress.
- Schizophrenia diagnosis, homelessness, and lack of financial skills were common among participants.
- Participants demonstrated long-term dependence on Social Security income and mental health services, with frequent hospitalizations.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with severe mental illness in representative payeeship programs often lack financial independence.
- These clients struggle with employment income and family financial support.
- Targeted financial literacy and support interventions are crucial for this population.