SupPart - Supporting the engagement of experts-by-experience in mental health research

Participatory mental health research is a paradigm that conceives of research as co-production of knowledge by different actors, both experts-by-training as well as experts-by-experience. This paradigm has gained traction as a socially innovative research practice over the past decades and (some level of) participation is increasingly also required by funders. In this context, it is often referred to as Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE).

Implementing participation in mental health research comes with challenges however: How exactly can experts-by-experience be involved? What project designs and methods are suitable, how can the participatory process be organized and evaluated, what resources are needed? (In how far) does the participation change traditional roles and hierarchies and the knowledge produced?

We believe participatory mental health research is a great learning opportunity for all and can contribute to a person-centred and inclusive psychiatry.

... a team of experts-by-experience, experts-by-training and persons with a mix of these expertises with experience in co-leading, collaborating in and reviewing participatory research projects.

• Consultation for individual projects or project ideas
• Presentations, co-learning and networking events
• Contacts of experts-by-experience (patients/users as well as relatives) with an interest in research and contacts of experts-by-training with an interest in participatory research
• Knowledge management

You can address any queries to: partizipation@bli.uzh.ch