The primary advantage of this alternative perspective on mental health is that it shifts the perception of mental disorders from being an illness affecting only a select few, to being the far end of a spectrum that includes everyone. This perspective views mental health not as a black-and-white dichotomy between the presence or absence of a diagnosis, but as a range of varying levels between experiencing good mental health and suffering from severe mental health problems. In response to the negative consequences of the perspective on mental health described above, an alternative approach has gained increasing support in recent years. However, this perspective also has important downsides, largely stemming from its tendency to frame mental health problems within a rigid dichotomy, treating them as either present or absent disorders.
Similarly, other studies have demonstrated https://www.naadac.org/cultural-humility-resources the underutilization of mental health services by minoritized ethnic groups in need of mental healthcare. Although the prevalence of mental disorders is lower in Black people than in white people in the United States, the impact of these disorders tends to be more severe in marginalized communities. Under these premises, tele-mental health (TMH) makes possible the virtual connections of mental health specialists and PCPs, especially in rural areas and for unemployed and uninsured individuals who often have limited access to specialty care. WHO recommends that mental health care providers contextualize and adapt these programs for each specific setting. It was launched in 2008 with the mandate of producing evidence-based guidelines for managing mental, neurological, and substance use disorders by nonspecialist health workers in routine health care settings.
Why Culturally Competent Care Is a Game Changer
Thus, under this paradigm, social adversities are – like mental ill health – seen as just another consequence of genetic influences. Any public health campaign to improve population mental health that does not address poverty will be unlikely to meet its goal. The adversity faced by children in poverty leaves them less prepared for school, as they rate lower on numerous aspects of readiness at school entry age, including social and behavioural skills, language development, and cognitive abilities452, 453. Any comprehensive public health approach to reducing the burden of poor mental health must include a focus on poverty alleviation. Further, the onset of many mental health problems occurs during the transition from adolescence to adulthood, a point at which the stakes are high for achieving socio‐developmental milestones.
We then introduce a preventive framework for conceptualizing the link between social determinants and mental health and disorder, which can guide much needed primary prevention strategies capable of reducing inequalities and improving population mental health. Through collaboration with public agencies and local organizations, these clinics are bridging gaps in access and delivering comprehensive care to people who might otherwise struggle to receive treatment. The clinic’s staff works closely with local agencies and non-governmental organizations, facilitating a holistic approach to healthcare for marginalized groups in the Mid West region.
Mental Health Facts for Bisexual Populations (.pdf)
- Most studies specifically concerned with common mental disorders in refugees, asylum seekers or forced migrants generally lack a comparator, but available evidence suggests that the prevalence of depression and anxiety may be higher in these displaced groups than in the general population114, 118.
- Although different theories exist on how higher levels of inequality may lead to worse mental health256, one possible explanation is that highly unequal neighbourhoods erode levels of trust, weaken social ties, and reduce positive reciprocity, leading to greater exposure to stressogenic environments that negatively affect mental health.
- Ball and Skrzypek offer another promising intervention, a unique program that links school transformative social-emotional learning and intergroup dialogue, two well-informed approaches to engaging students in becoming more self-aware and developing relational skills.
This requires establishing the extent to which various social determinants are causally implicated in producing poor mental health, and generating inequalities in risk for mental disorders. Relying as far as possible on high‐quality evidence, we first map out the literature that supports a causal link between social determinants and later mental health outcomes. Dr. Patrick O’Donnell, a general practitioner at the clinic, explained that the program began as a pilot and has grown to become an essential community resource supporting the health needs of those who may not otherwise access mainstream medical services. Many marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by these events, leading to increased mental health concerns. In light of current global challenges—such as wars, genocides, gun violence, natural disasters, political unrest, and election anxiety—mental health care is more critical than ever. While many face challenges in accessing care, discrimination, systemic inequalities, and stigma can exacerbate these issues, making mental health services even less accessible.
But several cultural and structural barriers prevent Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders from accessing mental health services. Through coordinated efforts from healthcare providers, policymakers, advocates, and community leaders, we can build a system that truly serves everyone. ~ Collaboration between health care and human services For many in marginalized communities, even taking the first step toward care is met with significant obstacles.
Community Management Intern
In older adulthood, loneliness is a prevalent issue, with 52.3% of individuals aged 75–84 and 62.6% of those aged 85 and older in the Netherlands reporting feelings of loneliness in 2023, according to CBS. Additionally, caregiver stress, stemming from responsibilities such as caring for aging parents or other relatives, is a significant source of emotional strain in this age group. Addictions, substance use disorders, and schizophrenia are frequently first diagnosed during this stage. Commonly diagnosed disorders in this age group include anxiety disorders, depression, and eating disorders. The most commonly diagnosed conditions in this age group include anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This shift can create a more inclusive society where people feel safe to share their experiences and seek help.