Telling our story: consumer perceptions of their role in mental health education.

OBJECTIVE

This Australian study provides insight into the meaning that former consumers involved in the education and training of mental health staff attributed to their role.

METHODS

Interviews were conducted with 11 consumer educators and were analysed using a qualitative phenomenological approach.

RESULTS

Five themes emerged from the interviews including: giving of self; tokenism; learned versus lived experience; voyeurism; and lack of clear expectations.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings highlight the need for ongoing critical review of the way in which consumer educators are engaged in the education and training of mental health professionals.