The economic correlates of unmet need may attain increased importance in the light of current reform in health care financing in the USA. Access may be facilitated by increasing parental knowledge of mental health services and enabling children and adolescents to initiate contact with services independently of their families.

A mail survey of family members of individuals with psychiatric disabilities assessed perceptions of service needs. Housing needs emerged as the primary concern of these family members. Policy implications regarding the family are considered in light of public responsibility for the care and support of those with psychiatric disabilities.