Consumer participation in mental health research: articulating a model to guide practice

Objective: Consumer involvement in mental health research is considered both a right and a benefit, despite the identified barriers to forming effective collaborative relationships. The purpose of this paper is to examine the literature relating to consumer involvement in mental health research with a view to articulating a model to guide this process. Method: A qualitative review of the relevant literature was undertaken. Literature referring to consumer roles in research was accessed and reviewed with the aim of articulating the benefits of, and barriers to, consumer participation in research. Results: The literature has identified a number of important benefits and some significant barriers to consumer involvement in mental health research. However, a clear model to articulate definitions of involvement is lacking. Four distinct levels of involvement were articulated. Conclusions: The identification of clearly defined models for consumer involvement in mental health research is important in order to facilitate collaboration and avoid tokenism. Research is required in order to determine the applicability of these models within actual research projects.