Research
ARAFEMI supports research, which progresses the principles of psycho - social rehabilitation and recovery for both people with a mental illness and those that care for them. ARAFEMI believes that research is essential for the field of mental health to promote development of evidence based good practice (via research and evaluation) and learning. ARAFEMI has particular interest in research in the area(s) of families and carers of people with a mental illness and mutual support and self help models.
As such, ARAFEMI has formulated its own Code of Good Research Practice, on the basis of NH&MRC Guidelines, with the intention of promoting good research practice, of encouraging integrity in research, and of providing workable guidelines for both internal research and / or individuals and organizations seeking support from ARAFEMI.
Carer Research
ARAFEMI has a particular focus on contributing to research on carers of people who have a mental illness, recovery practice and self help support models. We actively engage in service evaluation and research that is used to improve our services and contribute to the broader mental health field.
Carer Involvement Project: Gathering Lived Experience
The purpose of the Peer Mentoring Project is to develop an evidence-based and replicable peer mentoring support service for carers of people with a mental illness. There are lots of peer groups around, however this is a one-on-one support service based both at the inpatient unit and another community health service within the Northern region. This report presents a body of knowledge and practical tips around carer needs, peer support and mentoring models. It identifies service gaps and to assist in the design of a workable model the report also presents a map of Victorian carer peer support services and relevant mentoring models nationally. The undertaking of this phase of the project involved a survey of 500 studies and scholastic articles furthermore, a research of programs and publications was carried out for all major mental health organisations in Victoria. In light of this review, recommendations are put forward for a prospective peer mentoring pilot program to commence in 2009 in the North.
Download the Carer Involvement Project: Gathering Lived ExperienceCarer Consultation Report
This paper is part of a service evaluation and carer consultation conducted by ARAFEMI. Carers responded to information on current service and support needs, issues faced as carers, future service / support needs and the role of carers in advocacy.
Using social research methods to gather qualitative and quantitative information, the results are based on
a sample size of 147 survey respondents, and 66 carers who attended 5 community focus groups and/or provided extended individual feedback. In addition, research literature into the needs of carers of people with mental illness was analysed and reviewed in the context of both a recovery model and the Carer Life Course Framework (Carers NSW, 2005).
Download the Carer Consultation Report
Partnerships
ARAFEMI maintains partnerships and links with a range of mental health organisations, Universities and research organisations that have a specialist focus on mental health and carers. Through these associations, ARAFEMI can support and contribute to research that improves and promotes the well being of people affected by mental illness. Research areas include experiential perspectives, theoretical ideas, and evidence based research that progress knowledge on mental health, with particular emphasis on carers. Our experience in this field assists us to maintain a unique focus on the needs of carers and consumers.
Current Research Requests
ARAFEMI supports a range of research projects undertaken by organisations, networks, Masters and Doctorate students and professional staff, by distributing information and advertising for research participants. Our ‘news and events’ is also a sharing place for information and research across mental health.
If you are interested in becoming involved or contributing to current research projects please follow the links below for further information:
Problem Drinking Survey- University of Melbourne
Problem Drug Use Survey- University of Melbourne
Alternative treatment for the symptoms of schizophrenia- Alfred Hosptal
Early electrophysiological markers of schizophrenia in young infants- Swinburne University
If you are interested in promoting your research through our website - please follow the following guidelines:
Guidelines for organisations and students seeking support with research