Factors influencing family decisions to seek treatment at psychiatric hospitals: a thematic analysis

OBJECTIVE: To investigate barriers and facilitators that influence family decisions to seek mental healthcare at psychiatric hospitals. METHODS: Family members aged �18 years who accompanied their relatives for psychiatric care at a psychiatric hospital in Aceh, Indonesia, between September and October 2024 were recruited using convenience sampling. Participants were asked a single open-ended question: "Why did you decide to go to the psychiatric hospital?" Responses were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS: In total, 168 family members participated. Seven themes were identified: (1) deterioration of the patient's condition, (2) desire for appropriate treatment, (3) influence from family and healthcare workers, (4) difficulty managing patient behaviour, (5) limitations of previous treatments, (6) financial considerations, and (7) urgency to seek recovery. CONCLUSION: Clinical or patient-related factors as well as social and contextual influences affect treatment-seeking behaviour among families of individuals with mental illness in Indonesia. There is a need for improved access to mental health services and support systems to aid families making decisions. Raising awareness and educating families about mental health resources may facilitate more informed decision making.