An exploration of psychological interventions in the acute inpatient mental health setting

Literature suggests that individuals experiencing acute mental health difficulties can benefit from psychological input, with calls to increase psychological provision in inpatient mental health settings in the United Kingdom (UK). Despite this, there is limited research to support this demand, which may in part be due to inherent difficulties in conducting research in this setting.
Using an interview design and narrative analysis, this paper explored staff members’ and service-users’ experiences of inpatient psychological interventions in National Health Service (NHS) inpatient mental health settings.
Evidence was found to support the use of direct, indirect and strategic interventions for individuals, groups, families and staff teams. Formulation and the therapeutic relationship were conceptualised as common features of such input. Connections between inpatient psychology and change within the stories suggested that interventions can help people make sense of a crisis, improve relationships and contribute to meaningful recovery. Barriers were also presented, suggesting that psychological input in this setting might not be right for everybody.
This paper demonstrates that psychological input in the acute inpatient mental health setting is perceived as meaningful and can lead to changes. There is also a sense that this provision can be challenging, highlighting the need for further research.