Needs assessment of people with severe mental health problems and their family members provides important information necessary for developing effective interventions at both population and individual level. The study aimed to determine various needs perceived by patients with SMI and their family members, as well as to find out possible relations between the needs and socio-demographic and clinical variables. Similarly the study was intended to evaluate family burden and users’ satisfaction with services.

Fifty dyads of a patient and family members applying for outpatient services were participated in the study. Sociodemographic questionnaire, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Camberwell assessment of needs, involvement evaluation questionnaire and verona service satisfaction scale were used as assessment tools.

The most unmet needs reported by people with SMI and their relatives were psychological distress, social activities and welfare benefits. The study showed significant burden in families caring for people with SMI, which correlated with their views about patients’ needs and had a negative impact on the psychological well-being. Evaluation of satisfaction with services pointed out the gap between provided and desired services reported by patients and their relatives. Most of study participants wished to have sheltered work, or receive help in finding employment.

The study results suggest that in order to achieve better outcomes, services for persons with SMI should be developed in accordance with patients’ most prominent needs. With this regard needs assessment should become an integral part of routine clinical practice. The results may be used for mental health service planning, development and evaluation.