Examining the existing knowledge base for enablers of family recovery in mental health: A scoping review

Abstract This scoping review examines how enablers of family recovery are offered by mental health services. The review, guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for Scoping Reviews guidelines and Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework, aims to identify and define family recovery enablers, explore their usage, describe their benefits and challenges, and identify gaps in evidence. A comprehensive search of key databases, Medline, CINAHL, and PsycInfo, along with grey literature sources, yielded twenty-seven relevant studies. The enablers identified were grouped into five overarching headings of peer support, professional interventions, models for practice, community services, and individual factors. Enablers were put in place by adopting frameworks, the use of support materials, relational interactions, and accessing appropriate services. This led to a better understanding within the family, improved relationships and communication, and increased emotional support. Benefits included advocacy, empowerment, self-efficacy, and personal recovery for family members. Challenges included service issues like accessibility and confidentiality, study-related limitations, and individual and social factors. This review highlights a diverse range of enablers and their potential impact on family recovery within mental health services.