Reasons for Use Package: Outcomes From a Case Comparison Evaluation

Abstract

The objective was to explore the efficacy of a dual diagnosis resource—the Reasons For Use Package (RFUP)—to build staff capacity to work with service users and explore service user experiences. A two-state case comparison evaluation was conducted employing a mixed methods action research design, utilizing staff and service user surveys combined with focus groups involving staff trained and mentored in use of the RFUP. Results were that both staff and service users responded positively to the RFUP. Staff self-reported improvements in knowledge and confidence, and service users reported the RFUP assisted them with reflecting on interactions between their mental health and substance use; this assisted them with goal planning and improved their working relationship with staff. Implications were that training and mentoring in the RFUP can contribute to building staff knowledge and confidence in dual diagnosis interventions in mental health community services, and benefit service users.

Coproduction in evaluating a dual diagnosis tool with youth in a residential mental health service

“…Staff self-reported a statistically significant increase in both knowledge and confidence from pre-to post-training (Myers et al, 2020). The team demonstrated that, through mentoring, the increase in knowledge and confidence can be sustained and enhanced (Myers et al, 2018). Service users reported the RFUP assisted them with reflecting on interactions between their mental health and substance use; this assisted them with goal planning and significantly improved their working relationship with staff (Kroes et al, 2019).…”

“…A literature review in 2015 identified that there was a gap in evidence regarding whether dedicated tools could increase capability of staff (Petrakis et al, 2018). The national trial, commenced in 2015, found that the RFUP has several benefits including: staff confidence and knowledge about dual diagnosis interventions increased; it fits with present State and National mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) strategies; and it is recovery-based and user-friendly for a range of health and welfare staff and consumers, and very cost-effective (Myers et al, 2018).…”

“…A case-comparison evaluation by Myers et al (2020) explored the efficacy of the RFUP to build staff capability to work with service users, and explore service user experiences. Staff self-reported a statistically significant increase in both knowledge and confidence from pre-to post-training (Myers et al, 2020). The team demonstrated that, through mentoring, the increase in knowledge and confidence can be sustained and enhanced (Myers et al, 2018).…”

“…In addition, consumers involved in the previous research indicated benefiting from an improved relationship between themselves and their worker. A case-comparison evaluation by Myers et al (2020) explored the efficacy of the RFUP to build staff capability to work with service users, and explore service user experiences. Staff self-reported a statistically significant increase in both knowledge and confidence from pre- to post-training (Myers et al , 2020).…”

Psychedelics, Mystical Experiences, and Meaning Making: A Renegotiation Process With the Challenges of Existence

“…Although the notion that counselors may talk to clients about how their psychedelic experiences, mystical or otherwise, affected their relationship to the givens of existence in a meaningful and therapeutic way may cause hesitation, counselors are reminded that exploring the reasons for and effects of substance use is understood as an integral part of substance use treatment and is not generally considered as putting clients at risk (Aromin, 2016;Myers et al, 2020;Wilson et al, 2020). Given that mystical experiences have been found to be more influential and intense than their non-psychedelic-occasioned counterparts (Yaden et al, 2017), it stands to reason that these experiences should also be considered potentially transformative spiritual experiences as described by Blalock and Holden (2018).…”