Inclusionary Practices for Mental Illness
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new program called "Increasing Inclusionary Practices in Faith Communities" to help faith communities become more welcoming to people with serious mental illness. It aims to determine if training can lead to more inclusive actions, such as collaborating with mental health groups, and if it can change members' perceptions of mental illness. The trial will also assess whether people with mental illness and their families experience less discrimination and more acceptance. Anyone in a faith community involved in the training can participate. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the opportunity to contribute to pioneering efforts that could transform faith communities into more inclusive environments.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What prior data suggests that this behavioral intervention is safe?
Research shows that programs like the one in this study are generally safe. Without medicines or physical treatments, the risk of physical harm remains low. Participants engage in activities and training designed to foster inclusion in their faith communities. This method has been used elsewhere to reduce stigma and improve understanding of mental health issues, with no reports of harm. As this trial emphasizes learning and behavior-based activities, participants typically find it manageable.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about increasing inclusionary practices in faith communities because this approach focuses on social integration rather than traditional medical or psychological interventions. Unlike standard treatments for mental illness, which often involve medication or therapy sessions, this method aims to foster supportive environments within community settings. By encouraging congregations to actively include individuals with mental illness, the intervention could lead to improved mental health outcomes through enhanced social support and reduced stigma. This innovative approach has the potential to complement existing treatments by addressing the social aspects of mental health care.
What evidence suggests that this behavioral intervention is effective for increasing inclusionary practices in faith communities?
Research shows that faith communities can significantly support mental health. Studies have found that when these communities become more welcoming, people with serious mental health issues often face less stigma and feel more accepted. Efforts to increase social inclusion have successfully improved community involvement and reduced discrimination. This trial will test a behavioral intervention to enhance inclusionary practices in faith communities, focusing on changing behaviors and attitudes to foster a more inclusive atmosphere. By creating friendly environments and reaching out to those in need, faith communities can positively affect the lives of people with mental health challenges.12346
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for faith communities interested in becoming more inclusive towards individuals with serious mental illness. Congregations must be willing to form an inclusion committee, participate in a half-day training on mental health and inclusion, and engage in surveys about their practices.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Congregations participate in a behavior-based intervention to increase inclusionary practices for 11-12 months
Training
All congregation members attend a half-day training on mental illness and inclusion
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in inclusionary practices and attitudes towards mental illness
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Increasing Inclusionary Practices in Faith Communities
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Temple University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research
Collaborator