Utilization of an Innovative Psychoeducational Group for Veterans With Severe Mental Illness: A Program Evaluation of a Quality Improvement Initiative.

Introduction: Cognitive impairments-episodes of mania or psychosis, paranoia, and substance use-are common effects of serious mental illness, which can lead to stigmatization, social isolation, and a decrease in interaction with health care providers. These consequences can obstruct a person with serious mental illness ability to comprehend diagnosed mental disorders and to fully participate in treatment. Consistent with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Recovery Model for Disease Management, nurse practitioner residents in a mental health nurse practitioner residency program developed an interactive psychoeducation series to improve veteran health self-efficacy and self-management.