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1 – 10 of over 1000
Article
Publication date: 28 March 2024

Manoj Kumar, Rekha Bos, Emma Emily de Wit and J.G.F. Bunders-Aelen

This study aims to evaluate how a community psychiatry model, referred to as the Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT) in India, provides decentralized care and comprehensive services…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate how a community psychiatry model, referred to as the Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT) in India, provides decentralized care and comprehensive services to people with severe mental illness living in poverty. Using the complex adaptive system (CAS) framework, the authors aim to understand the factors that contribute to the diverse outcomes of the MHAT community mental health programme as observed in four different locations.

Design/methodology/approach

Four MHAT clinics were purposively chosen from two districts in Kerala. A comparative case study methodology was used to document each clinic’s MHAT services and activities, as found during field visits and interviews with staff members and volunteers.

Findings

The study shows that all four clinics met the basic aim of providing free, quality mental health care to the poorest populations, although not all aspects of the comprehensive model could be equally provided. Alignment with the MHAT vision, appropriate leadership, the relationship with partners and their level of community engagement determined the varied success between clinics.

Originality/value

The current study evaluation stresses that community ownership is crucial. Careful attention must be paid to the characteristics of selected partners, including their leadership styles and ability to garner resources.

Details

The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-6228

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 October 2023

Maria Teresa Ferazzoli and Lily Kpobi

This paper aims to provide new insights into and offer potential solutions to the challenges encountered by mental health services working with remote, rural or underserved…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide new insights into and offer potential solutions to the challenges encountered by mental health services working with remote, rural or underserved communities in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors reflect on the utility of integrating conventional clinical approaches, with preventive care and empowering work within the community, to provide culturally sensitive and accessible mental health services. The authors describe an example of community intervention from a mental health service in Ghana designed to enhance reach within remote and rural communities and identify potential lessons for practice in the UK.

Findings

The partnership between community mental health services and the rural communities, including families and existing social frameworks, applies collaborative care to overcome the lack of resources and facilitate the acceptability of mental health services to the local population. There are a series of important lessons from this experience including the importance of understanding the culture of a community to optimise reach and the importance of working IN the community and WITH the community.

Originality/value

This paper is novel because it provides learning from a model of care applied in the global south that has potential for implementation with underserved populations in the UK. The authors suggest a reframing of the notion of community care to encompass existing frameworks of community, not merely a biomedical conceptualisation.

Details

Journal of Integrated Care, vol. 32 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1476-9018

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 March 2024

Gabriella Karakas and Daniel R. du Plooy

Despite the substantial body of international research exploring the effects of forced migration on mental health and the obstacles faced by refugee cohorts in accessing mental…

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the substantial body of international research exploring the effects of forced migration on mental health and the obstacles faced by refugee cohorts in accessing mental health services, there is a lack of in-depth studies specifically focusing on Bosnian refugees in Australia – one of the largest ethnic groups of displaced peoples. This qualitative investigation seeks to convey the experiences of mental health services by five Bosnian refugees in Melbourne, highlighting perceived pathways and barriers to service utilisation. This study aims to address two primary research questions: firstly, what characterises the experiences of Bosnian refugees in Australia when accessing mental health services? Secondly, what are the main barriers encountered by this population when seeking mental health services?

Design/methodology/approach

This study used qualitative inquiry and in-depth interviews to investigate the experiences of Bosnian refugees with mental health services in Australia. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews with five Melbourne-based Bosnian refugees who had previously accessed mental health services. Participants were recruited from community groups or associations using purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was used.

Findings

Key themes were revealed, such as the crucial role of social and community services, preferences for individual vs group therapy, potential re-traumatisation from therapeutic engagement, distrust of government-run mental health services and concerns regarding psychopharmaceutical prescription practices. Addressing barriers to mental health service access necessitates a multifaceted approach, including flexible social and community service support, an increased number of co-ethnic professionals and a recognition of cultural variations for effective service provision. Implementing these strategies can enhance help-seeking behaviours, provide culturally appropriate mental health services and improve the experiences of Bosnian refugees in Australia.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to qualitatively explore how Bosnian refugees in Melbourne perceived the adequacy and availability of mental health services upon arrival to Australia. They are a large and potentially vulnerable community, due to experiences of war trauma and dislocation from country of origin. A lack of understanding regarding how this cohort engage with mental health services can lead to persistent inequities and ineffective service provision. This study identifies unique experiences and perspectives of Bosnian refugee participants, including distrust of government-run mental health services, and concerns regarding psychopharmaceutical prescription practices. This research is expected to contribute positively to the discourse on mental health service provision for Bosnian refugees and wider refugee communities in Australia.

Details

International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-9894

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 March 2024

Ermias Kifle Gedecho and Seongseop (Sam) Kim

This study aims to assess extant research streams to delineate new research directions for tourism stakeholders’ mental health and well-being.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to assess extant research streams to delineate new research directions for tourism stakeholders’ mental health and well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive review of the literature on various topics related to mental health, well-being, memorable experiences, emotions, community well-being, wellness tourism and sustainable development was conducted.

Findings

Several research directions for different research subjects were identified: tourists employees, and the community. For tourists, the research topics included mental health, well-being, memorable experiences and wellness tourism. For research on employees, the focus included their mental health, psychological well-being and negative emotions. In studying the role of tourism in community mental health and well-being, research has explored community well-being and emotional solidarity and used a capital approach. This study discusses several new research directions based on past research trends, global trends and other relevant factors.

Originality/value

This conceptual study can help understand the new holistic research landscape of mental health and well-being.

目的

本研究的目标是评估当前的研究现状, 为旅游相关的心理健康和幸福感确定新的研究方向。

设计/方法论/途径

对关于心理健康、幸福感、难忘体验、情绪、社区幸福感、健康旅游和可持续发展等多个主题的文献进行了全面审阅。

发现

确定了针对不同研究对象的若干研究方向:游客、员工和社区。对于游客, 研究主题包括心理健康、幸福感、难忘体验和健康旅游。对于员工的研究, 重点包括他们的心理健康、心理幸福感和负面情绪。在研究旅游对社区心理健康和幸福感的影响时, 探讨了社区幸福感、情感团结以及资本方法的运用。本研究根据过去的研究趋势、全球动态和其他相关因素, 提出了若干新的研究方向。

原创性/价值

这项概念性研究有助于全面理解心理健康和幸福感的新研究格局。

Propósito

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las corrientes de investigación existentes para delinear nuevas direcciones de investigación para la salud mental y el bienestar de los actores turísticos.

Diseño/metodología/enfoque

Se realizó una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura sobre diversos temas relacionados con la salud mental, el bienestar, las experiencias memorables, las emociones, el bienestar comunitario, el turismo de bienestar y el desarrollo sostenible.

Hallazgos

Se identificaron varias direcciones de investigación para diferentes sujetos de investigación: turistas, empleados y la comunidad. Para los turistas, los temas de investigación incluyeron la salud mental, el bienestar, las experiencias memorables y el turismo de bienestar. Para la investigación sobre los empleados, el enfoque incluyó su salud mental, bienestar psicológico y emociones negativas. Al estudiar el papel del turismo en la salud mental y el bienestar comunitario, la investigación ha explorado el bienestar comunitario y la solidaridad emocional, y ha utilizado un enfoque de capital. Este estudio discute varias nuevas direcciones de investigación basadas en tendencias de investigación pasadas, tendencias globales y otros factores relevantes.

Originalidad/valor

Este estudio conceptual puede ayudar a comprender el nuevo panorama holístico de investigación en salud mental y bienestar.

Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Ning Sun, Yuhan Peng, Yingchen Lu, Wanting Liu and Zhenhua Zheng

This study aims to investigate the relationships between the perceived neighborhood walkable environment (PNWE), neighborhood interaction (NI) and residents’ mental health, with…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationships between the perceived neighborhood walkable environment (PNWE), neighborhood interaction (NI) and residents’ mental health, with a focus on examining differences among residents of different age groups.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an electronic survey questionnaire, data on PNWE, NI and mental health were collected from 1,159 residents across 205 communities in Shanghai, China. Our study utilized a structural equation modeling (SEM), employing the maximum likelihood estimation method. The structural equation model was fitted using the MPLUS software.

Findings

The mental health of young and middle-aged adults is generally poor, and they are at higher risk of depression than children and older adults. The effects of PNWE and NI on the mental health of residents varied among different age groups. As residents get older, their mental health is more affected by the PNWE. In addition, the influence of the PNWE on children and older adults’ mental health is direct and not mediated by NI. For young and middle-aged adults, the influence of the PNWE on their mental health needs to be mediated by NI.

Originality/value

This study marks the first examination of the relationship between PNWE, NI and mental health among different age groups of residents in China. The findings of this research can assist policymakers in gaining a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which PNWE affects mental health. Furthermore, it can contribute to the development of more targeted walkable environment designs aimed at enhancing mental health among various age groups.

Details

Open House International, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2024

Waleed Sweileh

This paper aims to investigate research activity on barriers for minority and underserved groups to access and use mental health services.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate research activity on barriers for minority and underserved groups to access and use mental health services.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Scopus, relevant articles published from 1993 to 2022 were collected. The final list included 122 articles.

Findings

Research hotspots included cultural and ethnic barriers, obstacles encountered by LGBTQ+ individuals, challenges faced by refugees and immigrants, limited access in rural areas and barriers affecting special populations. The top 10 cited articles focused on language barriers, cultural stigma, gender-specific challenges and systemic obstacles. New research avenues included the role of technology in overcoming barriers to access mental health services.

Practical implications

Policymakers and practitioners can use this knowledge to develop targeted interventions, enhance cultural competence, reduce stigma, improve rural access and provide LGBTQ+-affirming care, ultimately promoting equitable mental health care.

Social implications

This research underscores the importance of addressing mental health service barriers for equity and social justice. Neglecting these disparities can worsen mental health, increase health-care costs, reduce productivity and lead to higher social welfare expenses, perpetuating disadvantages.

Originality/value

This paper's uniqueness lies in its comprehensive analysis of barriers and facilitators to mental health service utilization among minority and underserved groups. It serves as a basis for developing evidence-based strategies to improve service accessibility and enhance the well-being of marginalized communities.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 February 2024

Ritsuko Kakuma, Onah Uchenna Cajethan, Frances Shawyer, Vrinda Edan, Elisabeth Wilson-Evered, Graham Meadows and Lisa Brophy

Mental health recovery across cultures lacks understanding and suitable measures. The Questionnaire about the Process of Recovery (QPR) is a self-report instrument measuring…

Abstract

Purpose

Mental health recovery across cultures lacks understanding and suitable measures. The Questionnaire about the Process of Recovery (QPR) is a self-report instrument measuring personal recovery outcomes for consumers of mental health services. However, the extent of its relevance among culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities is unclear. This pilot study aimed to examine the relevance and utility of the QPR among CALD consumers of primary mental health services in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Eleven individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with two general practitioners (GPs) and nine consumers from two clinics, at locations with high Iranian and Burmese refugee or asylum seeker populations. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using a thematic framework approach.

Findings

Although almost all consumers had little or no understanding of the concept of personal recovery, they found the QPR culturally acceptable and understandable. Using the QPR during mental health consultations can help with needs identification and goal setting. Challenges in using the QPR included completion time, cross-cultural differences in concepts and norms for some items, and need for careful translation. Consumers suggested additional items regarding family reputation, sexuality, and spirituality.

Originality/value

The QPR is potentially a valuable tool to support mental health consultations with CALD consumers, from the perspectives of both GPs and consumers.

Details

International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-9894

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 July 2023

Jo Mullen

This paper aims to provide an example of patient-led co-production.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an example of patient-led co-production.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the six principles of co-production to frame the activities undertaken during the author’s relationship with a community mental health nurse.

Findings

The paper describes the benefit of a collaborative support group for the three lived experienced participants and a mental health nurse.

Practical implications

Small support groups like the one described in this paper can be established effectively through the process of co-production between people with lived experience and mental health professionals working in partnership.

Originality/value

Co-production is usually used with groups of stakeholders working together in an equitable way to design or deliver a new service; this paper, however, seeks to demonstrate how the process can be effectively used when the project is patient-led within the context of a therapeutic relationship.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. 28 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 December 2023

Avital Laufer, Anwar Khatib and Michal Finkelstein

This study aims to explore the link between mental health literacy (MHL) and resilience in two groups: individuals who underwent psychotherapy and a similar group who did not.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the link between mental health literacy (MHL) and resilience in two groups: individuals who underwent psychotherapy and a similar group who did not.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involved 256 participants from Israeli–Arab and Israeli–Jewish communities. Half of the participants had previously received psychological treatment, whereas the other half had not. MHL was evaluated through the Mental Health Literacy Scale (O’Connor and Casey, 2015), whereas resilience was gauged using the concise Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (Connor and Davidson, 2003).

Findings

The results indicated that participants who had therapy had higher levels of MHL and resilience compared to those who were not in therapy. Being acquainted with mental health disorders was positively associated with resilience, independent of sociodemographic variables and therapy participation. An interaction effect was found, showing a positive association between MHL and resilience among those who had therapy, whereas a negative association was observed among those not in therapy. A negative association was also found between social closeness to mental health patients and resilience for respondents who did not participate in therapy and was unrelated to resilience among those who had therapy.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that having MHL is vital but it does not necessarily translate into personal application or effective coping strategy implementation. In fact, it may be that having knowledge, in the absence of taking any active measures, can even be harmful.

Details

The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, vol. 19 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-6228

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 18 March 2024

Leonie Boland, Michelle Kennedy, Lauren Jane Lynch, Meabh Bonham-Corcoran and Sarah Quinn

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is an evidence-based employment model, effective in supporting individuals with severe mental health difficulties to gain competitive…

Abstract

Purpose

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is an evidence-based employment model, effective in supporting individuals with severe mental health difficulties to gain competitive employment. Irish mental health policy recognises its value and IPS is being rolled out in a national programme. Employment is recognised an important contributor to mental health recovery and social inclusion. However, research on IPS has tended to focus on competitive job outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore the non-vocational outcomes of IPS in an Irish context.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research approach was used to interview participants taking part in IPS within community mental health teams. Twelve interviews were included in the data analysis process which was informed by a thematic analysis approach.

Findings

Participants experienced increased confidence and positivity, both within a work context and whilst job seeking. More purposeful time use, participation in activities and engagement with society were also experienced by those employed and those at the job search stage of IPS.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature about the non-vocational benefits of IPS within an Irish context, highlights the mental health recovery benefits of taking part in IPS and supports the need for ongoing development of IPS throughout mental health services in Ireland.

Details

Irish Journal of Occupational Therapy, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-8819

Keywords

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