Do personnel with lived experience cultivate public values? Insights and lessons from mental healthcare managers

Health organizations charged with addressing public problems sometimes employ persons with relevant lived experience in meaningful organizational roles. Because of their prior experience, these individuals have intimate knowledge of the subject matter that professional training and education cannot replicate. Mental health treatment facilities in particular have demonstrated a growing trend toward incorporating staff members with lived experience. This study conducted semi-structured interviews with senior-level managers of organizations in this field to gain insight into the public values associated with this practice. Findings reveal that several public values, including dialogue, social cohesion, sustainability, productivity, and altruism, are cultivated when treatment facilities incorporate staff members with lived experience into service delivery. This study concludes with lessons for mental health leaders seeking to address mental illness.