The closing of a state hospital: what is the quality of patients' lives one year post-release?

Abstract

The closing of a state psychiatric facility afforded an opportunity to assess the quality of life of a cohort of patients who were released. Patients were interviewed a month after release and again a year later. Patients spent about half their time in mental health programs, but few were engaged in community activities or in employment. Cohort members mainly turned to mental health workers and case managers for support and problem resolution, as they had limited supports to turn to otherwise. Patients desired assistance in such areas as money management. In a number of areas of daily living, cohort members desired assistance a year after discharge, more so than upon release. Despite this, a year after release patients appeared to be quite positive toward themselves and their quality of life.