The general objective of this study was to unveil through a family viewpoint the participation of mental health patients in their family life. It was a qualitative approach study, conducted between March and May 2010. The 14 contributors belonged to 11 families of mental health patients, residing in the city of Maringá-PR. Thematic oral history was used as the data collection technique. The results demonstrated there is still difficulty with regard to family participation and decisions. With regard to daily chores, most patients contribute whenever they are not in crisis, but with limitations; family relationships are permeated with feelings of pain and suffering associated with pity and commiseration. It is concluded that Nursing plays an important role in the family, by guiding and supporting its needs.
Mental health; Psychiatric Nursing; Family; Deinstitutionalization