Previous Studies

Detailed below is an overview of all SANE research studies. For more information about any of these studies, please contact our research team.

2009

Research for health and local authorities
SANE conducted research for City & Hackney NHS. The research was commissioned following recognition that suicide remains a significant public health problem among white male residents in the area. Download the report overview.

2008

Choice in the English Mental Health System: a Policy Briefing
The report Choice in the English Mental Health System: A Policy Briefing was developed by the SANE Research team. We looked at choice as it is experienced and defined in the health service by patients, families and carers, clinicians and managers. The different interpretations are discussed and several recommendations are made. Amongst others, SANE highlights the need for a clear definition of choice and guidance for implementation as this would help manage expectations and ensure accountability. The report is relevant for anyone interested in the choice agenda and particularly advocates who want to move the debate forward. Click the image on the right to download the report.

Understanding Self-harm
In 2004, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence published the first treatment guideline on self-harm, revealing 170,000 people a year attended A&E departments with many being sent away with no proper help.

SANE responded to the report, and also undertook a major qualitative research study. The data collected from the research study charts self-harm behaviour from first episodes through to full recovery.

Download the full report: Understanding Self-harm
Download the qualitative health research paper: Functions of Self Harm

2007

Now We're Talking!
Is a survey of the experience of people with depression in primary care. Findings suggested that GPs could do more in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people with depression. We called for a broadening of GP contracts to improve this situation and offered practical recommendations. Read the report

Pro-Eating Disorder Websites: Users' Opinions
Over the past decade support groups have proliferated over the Internet.  One type of online community, run by individuals who themselves have an eating disorder, has attracted a significant amount of criticism. The criticised sites are commonly known as ‘pro-anorexia/pro-bulimia’ or ‘pro-ana/pro-mia’ sites.  The media has focused on the possible dangers these sites pose to visitors. Concern has been expressed that individuals are visiting these sites in order to ‘learn how to be anorexic’ or to sustain disordered eating behaviour. Another issue raised is the concept of the ‘anorexic/bulimic lifestyle’.

SANE conducted research into the experiences of young people using pro-eating disorder websites. The survey, the first of its kind in the UK, aimed to discover who visits these sites and why, as well as the impact the sites have on those using them and whether they are perceived as helpful or damaging.

Download the overview or the full academic report for indepth analysis.

2006

Think Twice
A survey of the experience of relapse in people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Our research found that approximately 7 out of 10 people living with schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder and bipolar disorder have experienced at least one relapse during the course of their condition.

As a result of the research, we launched the Think Twice campaign, dedicated to encouraging people, and those who care for them, to think again about relapse. Think Twice aims to increase awareness and understanding of the impact of relapse and most importantly provide information about ways to reduce the chance of relapsing.

As part of the campaign two complementary handbooks, one for service users and their carers, and another for mental health professionals, were developed to aid communication between you and your mental health team.

To find out more about relapse request a free hard copy of either handbook. Alternatively, download a copy below.

2003

Medication and SANE service users diagnosed with schizophrenia
Calls to SANEline about service users diagnosed with schizophrenia taking typical and atypical antipsychotic medications prior to and following the release of NICE guidance.

Self Disclosure of Mental Health Issues: The Telephone Compared to the Internet
Study exploring whether there is a difference between the number of clinical symptoms individuals are likely to disclose online compared to over the telephone.

A National Survey of Approved Social Workers in the UK
Survey focusing on information, communication and training needs.

For information on research undertaken prior to 2003, please download this PDF