Recommendation: Parents’ involvement in policy decisions

Finally, the parents in these focus groups showed considerable insight about how systems really work. Family involvement in policy boards is common in public mental health, but the key factor is whether families have a meaningful role or are merely token participants.

Policymakers in decision-making bodies at the state and local level should engage families of children with serious mental disorders in their deliberations. As demonstrated by these focus groups, families have acquired—often painfully—and are willing to share very valuable knowledge about how public policies translate into practice.

Next: Conclusion