Thesis (M.Cur.) -- University of Limpopo, 2015 / The purpose of the study was to investigate the experiences of families towards psychiatric state patients during LOA. A qualitative, phenomenological, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used. Non-probability sampling of the purposive type was used to explore and describe the experiences of families towards psychiatric state patients during LOA. Data were collected from ten (10) families by using semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Data were audio recorded and field notes were also written. Trustworthiness was ensured by applying credibility, transferability, confirmability and dependability. Transferability was ensured by utilizing purposive sampling to include participants. Confirmability was ensured by collecting data from the participants who have experience on the problem studied. Data were analysed qualitatively by using Tech’s open coding method. Results from the study shows that families experiences uncontrolled and disruptive behaviour from the psychiatric state patients during LOA. Guidelines for the study include: Families of psychiatric state patients should receive counselling and be involved in family therapy prior and after the psychiatric state patient’s LOA. Family members of psychiatric state patient experience emotional pain, therefore they need support from multidisciplinary team members to assist them to facilitate promotion, maintenance and restoration of their mental health as an integral part of their health. Recommendations include improvement of aspects in nursing practice, nursing education and nursing research. Key words: Experiences, family, psychiatric state patients, Leave of absence. DEFINITION