Mental Health Policy and Advocacy
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Mental Health Management and Counselling course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Advocacy #
the process of actively supporting a cause or proposal, often on behalf of a particular group or individual. In the context of mental health, advocacy involves promoting awareness of mental health issues, supporting the rights and needs of people with mental health problems, and working to influence mental health policy and practice.
Challenges #
there are many challenges facing mental health policy and advocacy, including:
* Stigma and discrimination against people with mental health problems #
* Stigma and discrimination against people with mental health problems
* Lack of access to mental health services, particularly in low #
and middle-income countries
* Under #
diagnosis and under-treatment of mental health problems
* Limited funding for mental health research and services #
* Limited funding for mental health research and services
* Limited availability of evidence #
based mental health interventions
Counselling #
a type of talking therapy that involves a trained professional helping a person to understand and manage their thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Counselling can be an effective intervention for a wide range of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and stress.
Evidence #
based practice: the use of research evidence to inform and improve mental health policy and practice. This approach involves systematically reviewing and synthesizing research findings, and using this evidence to develop and implement effective mental health interventions.
Mental health #
a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community. Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Mental health policy #
a set of principles, goals, and strategies that guide the development and implementation of mental health services and interventions. Mental health policy can be developed at the national, regional, or local level.
Mental health promotion #
the process of enabling people to increase control over their lives and improve their mental health. Mental health promotion involves creating supportive environments, building personal skills, and strengthening community actions.
Mental illness #
a wide range of mental health conditions that affect a person's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood. Mental illnesses include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Policy analysis #
the process of examining and evaluating mental health policies to determine their effectiveness, efficiency, and equity. Policy analysis can be used to inform the development of new mental health policies, or to improve existing ones.
Prevention #
the process of reducing the risk of mental health problems and promoting mental well-being. Prevention strategies can be divided into three categories: universal (targeted at the general population), selective (targeted at high-risk groups), and indicated (targeted at people who already have early signs of a mental health problem).
Professional Certificate in Mental Health Management and Counselling #
a professional development program that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to manage and counsel people with mental health problems. The program covers topics such as mental health policy and advocacy, mental health promotion, and evidence-based counselling interventions.
Recovery #
the process of working towards a fulfilling and meaningful life, despite ongoing mental health challenges. Recovery involves developing hope, personal resilience, and a sense of purpose, and may involve accessing mental health services and support.
Stigma #
negative attitudes and beliefs towards people with mental health problems. Stigma can take the form of discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion, and can have a significant impact on a person's mental health and well-being.
Support #
the provision of practical or emotional assistance to someone with a mental health problem. Support can come from a range of sources, including family, friends, mental health professionals, and peer support groups.
Treatment #
the use of medical or psychological interventions to manage mental health problems. Treatment may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
Universal mental health coverage #
the provision of mental health services and interventions to all people who need them, regardless of their ability to pay. Universal mental health coverage is a key goal of mental health policy and advocacy.
WHO #
the World Health Organization, a United Nations agency that promotes mental health and well-being worldwide. The WHO is a key source of information and guidance on mental health policy and advocacy.