
When a young person is admitted to an inpatient unit for mental health treatment, it doesn’t just affect the individual – it impacts the whole family. McGrath et al. (2024) delve into the complexities of how siblings are influenced by their brother or sister’s mental health struggles and subsequent hospitalization.
Understanding Sibling Experiences
With mental health disorders on the rise among young people in the UK, the need to address the impact on siblings is crucial. McGrath et al. (2024) conducted interviews with siblings of young people who were in or recently discharged from inpatient units. Through Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), they uncovered the emotional turmoil and unique challenges faced by these siblings.

Sibling relationships can be complex and are further complicated by mental health challenges.
Insights from the Study
Participants
The study involved Irish participants aged 13-22, shedding light on the experiences of siblings with various mental health diagnoses.
Key Themes
The researchers identified two overarching themes related to siblings’ identities and their roles in supporting their hospitalized brother or sister.
Theme 1: Personal Identity
Siblings grapple with their sense of responsibility and the emotional toll of supporting their family during challenging times.
Theme 2: Feeling on the Outside
Participants expressed a mix of emotions, from confusion to powerlessness, as they navigated their sibling’s mental health journey.

Siblings often feel a strong sense of responsibility to support each other and their family.
Implications and Recommendations
The study underscores the need for clinicians to consider the impact on siblings when a young person undergoes inpatient treatment. Providing siblings with information and support can help alleviate their feelings of confusion and powerlessness.
Encouraging siblings to prioritize their own well-being and seek support through peer groups may enhance their coping mechanisms and mental health resilience.

Clinicians should take the whole family into account when treating young people in inpatient units.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the impact of youth mental health on siblings is essential for providing holistic care and support to families. McGrath et al.’s study sheds light on the often overlooked experiences of siblings, emphasizing the importance of addressing their needs and concerns during such challenging times.
References:
- McGrath, L., Wilson, C. E., & Buckmaster, A. (2024). ‘No one else understands’, ‘I wouldn’t want to pity myself over something that’s not really my problem’: siblings’ experiences of their adolescent brothers and sisters’ inpatient treatment for mental health difficulties. Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 29(1), 4–13.
- Bowman, S., Alvarez‐Jimenez, M., Wade, D., McGorry, P., & Howie, L. (2014). Forgotten family members: the importance of siblings in early psychosis. Early Intervention in Psychiatry, 8(3), 269–275.
- CQC. (2024). Children and young people.