Social network and social support characteristics amongst individuals recently discharged from acute psychiatric units

This study compares the social support network of a diagnostically heterogeneous group of community mental health service users recently discharged from acute inpatient units, with that of a mental health service user comparison group with no history of hospital admission. Social data were elicited by a structured interview schedule (the Social Network Schedule). It was observed that the study group was characterized by smaller overall social networks, particularly within the primary network, but conversely the group had a greater proportion of service user peer contact. Few differences in perceived social support between groups were observed, although the study group reported fewer confidants. The implications of the study for nursing staff are discussed.