A Study on the Experience of Housing Services for the Persons with Mental Illness

The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of individuals with mental illness who receive residential services during the process of community integration, and to propose practical measures in this field. To gain a better understanding of the context and significance of using residential services, eight participants who have utilized two or more types of such services, including halfway houses, living facilities, communal living families, and self-reliance experience housing, were selected. Data was collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using a continuous comparison method. The analysis resulted in the identification of 5 categories, 11 patterns, and 31 meanings: ① a vague desire for independence, ② finding a sense of daily life through practical preparation, ③ receiving empowerment from applicants, ④ enduring rewards and punishments, and ⑤ gaining confidence in independence. This study reveals that the experience of housing services for individuals with mental disabilities is a process of realizing the possibility of independence, starting from a vague desire, and driven by strong applicants, while also expanding voluntary housing options. Based on these findings, a housing service plan is proposed to support the community integration process for individuals with mental disabilities