Cygnus: a psychoeducational group for carers of people with a personality disorder

Abstract

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance suggests that carers of individuals with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder experience high levels of psychological distress, yet few services in the UK offer specific support to this group of carers. This article will describe the development of a psychoeducational carers’ group based on schema theory (Young et al, 2003), including the development of the role of carer experts-by-experience as group co-facilitators. Initial outcome data from the pilot suggest that carers are highly satisfied with the group and that it improves their knowledge, understanding and personal well-being.

Experiences of Being Cared-For: The Perspective of an Expert-by-Experience in Mental Health

“…However, recently the implementation of caregivers' education programmes is now recommended in UK government guidance ( 28 ), and caregivers are given a right to support in accordance with the Care Act ( 29 ). Furthermore, training opportunities have become increasingly available for caregivers of people with specific mental health conditions, such as personality disorder ( 30 , 31 ) or schizophrenia ( 32 ). Despite this, access to forms of peer support and training are often denied to many caregivers by the cared-for person's fears ( 33 ).…”