This study explored the experiences of social integration among nine individuals with mental health difficulties living independently in the community. Through interviews, participants reported that their mental health symptoms negatively impacted their social integration by causing withdrawal and reduced enjoyment of social activities. Many experienced stigma, especially regarding employment, once their difficulties were disclosed. Social support largely came from family and healthcare professionals. Barriers to integration included a lack of transportation, financial issues, unemployment, and feelings of protection from society's judgment gained by staying in. While integration levels varied, challenges relating to their difficulties and consequences were still evident.

1. A qualitative descriptive exploration of the
experience of social integration of persons who
experience mental health difficulties, living
independently in the community.
Fitzgerald, C. (2015)
Introduction: It is well documented and accepted that poor social integration is linked to
deterioration in mental health status (Faccincani et al. 1990, Hultman et al. 1997, Becker et
al. 1998, Duberstein et al. 2004), thus inhibiting one’s quality of life and recovery. However
individuals who experience mental health difficulties may also incur a level of social
disablement despite symptomatic relief. Low income, unemployment, small social networks
and poor health among this population are more likely to act as barriers to social
participation, promoting social isolation and in turn, leading to social and personal
devaluation (Ramon 2001).
Methodology: This qualitative descriptive study explores the experience of social
integration of a sample of nine participants with mental health difficulties living
independently in the community. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews.
Interview data were analysed using a content analysis method.
Results: The study participants reported that the symptoms of mental health difficulties
negatively impacted on their ability and level of social integration by causing them to
withdraw and self-isolate or not experience as much enjoyment from social activities as they
would have if they were well. Many participants experienced stigma and discrimination as a
result of experiencing mental health difficulties, particularly in relation to obtaining
employment and a change in how they were treated by some of their contacts once their
mental health difficulties were disclosed. Social support was limited to and largely provided
for by spouses, family and mental health care professionals. Barriers to social integration
were a lack of independent transport, financial difficulties, unemployment and self-
employment. For some participants, going out was a positive social integration strategy
whereas for others, staying in allowed them to feel protected from the judgement and
pressure of society. Overall, participants largely felt socially integrated although their

2. understanding of social integration varied, and challenges and obstacles were evident
relating to their mental health difficulties and the consequences of such.
Recommendations: Health professionals should educate service-users and their families
about the benefits of social integration, ensure service-users are in receipt of all financial
entitlements, and encourage, aid and promote meaningful employment, and social
relationships outside of family, spouses and healthcare professionals.
References:
Becker T., Leese M., McCrone P., Clarkeson P., Szmukler G. & Thornicroft G. (1998) Impact of
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Duberstein P., Conwell Y., Conner K., Eberly S., Evinger J. & Caine E. (2004) Poor social
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Faccincani C., Mignolli G. & Platt S. (1990) Service utilisation, social support and psychiatric
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Hultman C., Wieselgren I. & O’hman A. (1997) Relationships between social support, social
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Ramon S. (2001) Defining Community: meaning and ideologies. In Textbook of Community
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Full paper available on request