Mental Health

World Mental Health Day

2012-05-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

World Mental Health Day (October 10), is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.This day, each October thousands of supports come to celebrate this annual awareness program to bring attention to Mental Illness and its major effects on peoples' life worldwide.In some countries this day is part of the larger Mental Illness Awareness Week

PSYCHIATRIC-MENTAL HEALTH NURSE

2012-05-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

PSYCHIATRIC-MENTAL HEALTH NURSE

Background:

The need for psychiatric mental health nursing has its roots near the end of the 19th century when it was believed that patients in mental hospitals should receive nursing care. Psychiatric mental health nursing has since come a long way, with psychiatric-mental health content incorporated into all diploma and baccalaureate nursing programs. As new needs for services developed in the health care arena, the role and function of the psychiatric-mental health nurse expanded, leading to advanced practice registered nurses in psychiatric-mental health nursing (APRN-PMH). Psychiatric-mental health nurses are a rich resource as providers of psychiatric-mental health services and patient care partners for the consumers of those services.
Roles:
The clinical practice of psychiatric nursing occurs at two levels - basic and advanced. At the basic level, registered nurses work with individuals, families, groups, and communities to assess mental health needs, develop diagnoses, and plan, implement, and evaluate nursing care. Basic level nursing practice characterized by interventions that promote and foster health, assess dysfunction, assist clients to regain or improve their coping abilities, and prevent further disability. These interventions focus on psychiatric-mental health clients and include health promotion, preventive management of a therapeutic environment; assisting client with self-care activities; administering and monitoring psychobiological treatment regimens; health teaching; including psychoeducation; crisis intervention and counseling and case management.
Registered nurses who seek additional education and obtain a masters or doctoral degree can become advanced practice nurses in the specialty (Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialists or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners). After post-master's supervised clinical practice, they can become certified as specialists in adult, or child and adolescent psychiatric-mental health nursing. In addition to the functions performed at the basic level, these advanced practice nurses assess, diagnose, and treat psychiatric disorders and potential mental health problems. They provide the full range of primary mental health care services to individuals, families, groups and communities, function as psychotherapists, and in some states they have the authority to prescribe medications. Psychiatric-mental health nurses in advanced practices are qualified to practice independently to offer direct care services in settings such as agencies, communities, homes, hospitals, and offices. Some psychiatric-mental health clinical nurse specialists practice consultation/liaison nursing, delivering mental health services to physically ill patients or consultation to staff in general medical settings.

Because of their broad background in biological, pharmacological, sociological, and psychological sciences, psychiatric-mental health nurses are a rich resource as providers of psychiatric-mental health services and patient care partners for the consumers of those services. Specialties:
Psychiatric nursing sub-specialties include, but are not limited, to child, adolescent, adult, geriatric, consult/liaison, substance abuse, eating disorders, forensic. Certification in a sub-specialty is possible through ANCC and various sub-specialty organizations.
Qualifications:
A psychiatric-mental health nurse must possess the following knowledge: Biologic and psychological theories of mental health and mental illness, psychotherapeutic modalities, substance abuse and dual diagnosis, care of populations at risk, community milieu as a therapeutic modality, cultural and spiritual implications of nursing care, family dynamics in mental health and illness, psychopharmacology, legal and technical factors, including documentation specific to the care of those with a mental illness.
A psychiatric-mental health nurse must possess the following skills: Comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration, identification and coordination of relevant resources for clients and families, use of psychiatric diagnostic classification systems, therapeutic communication, therapeutic use of self, psychoeducation with clients and families, and administering and monitoring psychopharmacologic agents.
Practice Settings:
Psychiatric-mental health nurses work in a wide array of inpatient and outpatient such as full or partial hospitals, community-based or home care programs, and local, state, and federal mental health agencies. Other settings include: School/college of nursing, private practice, military, primary care office, prison/jail, home health agency, behavioral care company/HMO.
Salary Range: A psychiatric-mental health nurse - basic (RN) level national annual salary range: $25,000-$47,000 (dependent on geographical location).
A psychiatric-mental health nurse - advanced (APRN-PMH) level national annual salary range: $50,000-$70,000.
Education:
A generalist PMH nurse holds either a BSN, AD, or diploma.
An advanced PMH nurse (APRN-PMH) holds a masters or doctoral degree, is ANCC certified, and has an advanced practice license from the state in which he/she practices.

Mental health nursing

2012-05-24T14:57:00.001-07:00

This page introduces mental health nursing.

What is it?

One of the most complex and demanding areas of nursing. As many as one in three people are thought to suffer some form of mental health problem. For many, mental illness is brought on by a crisis in life, which they can't cope with, such as depression after the death of a partner. A mental health nurse may be part of a team working with people who may have been excluded from services through drug or alcohol abuse.

The range of conditions is vast: neuroses, psychoses, psychological and personality disorders all come under the broad heading of mental health.

What does it involve?

The key role and challenge is to form therapeutic relationships with mentally ill people and their families. Most mentally ill people are not cared for in hospital but in the community.

You might be based in a community health care centre, day hospital and outpatients department or specialist unit. You will need to have a good understanding of the theories of mental health and illness.

hat are the special demands? Your main tool as a mental health nurse will be the strength of your own personality and communication skills. You will need to empathise with the people you are dealing with and show warmth and care about them. Regrettably there is still some stigma attached to mental illness. Combating this and helping the individuals and their families deal with it is a key part of the job.

The danger of violence is often associated with this branch of nursing and one of the special skills required is to spot a build up of tension and defuse it.

Dealing with the human mind and behaviour is not an exact science. The job of helping people back to mental health is every bit as valuable and satisfying as caring for those with a physical illness.

It is possible to combine training as a mental health nurse with social work.

Healthy mind, healthy body' programme launched

2012-02-06T04:39:00.001-08:00

Times NIE, Tupperware India joined hands in making the youth of India healthy, reports Ainee Nizami

With assignments to complete, deadlines to meet, classes to attend and pressure to perform well, students today have no time to spare for their health. The fast paced lives they lead leave no room to consider the harmful effects that junk food, lack of sleep and stress leads to,. Keeping this in mind, Times NIE and Tupperware India have decided to embark on a health mission which stresses upon the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle.

Healthy Heart: Avoid Trans Fat

2012-02-06T04:38:00.002-08:00

On December 5, 2006, the Board of Health approved an amendment to the Health Code to phase out artificial trans fat in all NYC restaurants and other food service establishments. It is in full effect.
The phase out of artificial trans fat in restaurant foods took effect in two stages. First, as of July 1, 2007, NYC food service establishments have been prohibited from using oils, shortening and margarine containing artificial trans fat for frying or as a spread that have 0.5 grams or more of trans fat per serving. As of July 1, 2008, all foods must have less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving if they have any artificial trans fat. Packaged foods served in the manufacturer's original, sealed packaging are exempt.

Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Services and Information

2012-02-06T04:38:00.000-08:00

In the years since the conditions at the Willowbrook State School on Staten Island were made public, great strides have been made in NYC to improve services and conditions for persons with developmental disabilities and to establish comprehensive, community-based service systems. The mission of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), Division of Mental Hygiene (Division or DMH) with regard to mental retardation and developmental disability services, is to provide person-centered planning and the development of individualized, comprehensive, community-integrated services.

Division of Mental Hygiene

2012-02-06T04:36:00.001-08:00

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Division of Mental Hygiene (Division or DMH), under the City Charter and in accordance with State Mental Hygiene Law, is responsible for administering, planning, contracting, monitoring, and evaluating early intervention services for children under three years old who have a developmental delay or disability, and community mental health, mental retardation, and chemical dependency services within the City of New York. In addition, DMH plans and collaborates with other City agencies to provide a variety of uniquely targeted programs, including those for individuals who are homeless or who have co-occurring disorders.
DMH is committed to ensuring that all mental health services in New York City meet the highest quality standards for the over 450,000 people in New York City who suffer from one or more mental health disorders. It is the Division’s mission to partner with consumers, families, advocates, and providers to ensure access to high quality services and to improve the lives of New Yorkers with mental health and chemical dependency disorders and those with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

How to Become a Mental Health Counselor

2012-02-04T03:13:00.000-08:00

Mental health counselors are licensed professionals who offer a variety of services including diagnosis, therapy, educational programs and development of treatment plans. Diverse working environments are common for counselors and can be found in such places of employment as schools, rehabilitation centers, jails, employment facilities and family services. Use these tips to learn how to become a mental health counselor.
Education and Experience Requirements
Particular education requirements are necessary for a career in mental health therapy. A master’s degree is the most common educational requirement. In order to meet state licensing requirements to become a mental health counselor, a person must complete a master's degree in a program of study related to counseling. This includes a variety of degree programs such as mental health counseling, marriage and family counseling, rehabilitation counseling or community counseling.
In addition to the educational requirements, experience in mental health counseling jobs is required for licensing. Prior to taking the test to become a licensed mental health counselor, professionals must work in a clinical setting providing mental health therapy for two years. A two-year internship is required by most schools and may or may not be a paid position.
The work experience must be completed under the supervision of someone who is licensed or certified in a mental health profession. Following completion of the required work experience or internship, it is necessary to pass the licensing examination required by the state in which the professional resides.
Students who have families or already established careers and are going back to school to gain the education they need to switch gears may want to consider earning their mental health counseling degrees online. Online programs allow students to obtain the education they need without disrupting their lives. Depending on the student’s individual needs, any accredited university or college that offers mental health counseling studies is sufficient. This may include an online university or campus-based college program.
Licensing Requirements
Licensing requirements for mental health counseling are similar to those required for marriage and family therapists as well as clinical social workers. Licensure varies by state and work setting. Continuing education requirements may be necessary in some states in order to achieve the required license. Public schools in nearly every state require licensing and counseling certifications.
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
According to the reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2012, mental health counselor occupations are expected to increase at a greater rate than the average job. Projected employment growth is favorable and expected to increase approximately 20%. Substance abuse counselors and mental health counselors who deal with behavioral disorders are among the fastest growing occupations in the industry. Openings for employment are expected to rise over the next decade in jails and treatment program facilities.

Mental Health Counselor

2012-02-04T03:12:00.001-08:00

Counselors are professionals who assist individuals and groups with their personal problems in order to help them become more self-sufficient. Individuals that specialize in mental health counseling concentrate on promoting optimum mental health through various programs and services. They help individuals deal with suicidal impulses, self-esteem issues, addictions and substance abuse, stress management, job and career concerns, marital problems, educational decisions, and issues associated with aging. Beginning with the interview process, mental health counselors make observations that help them determine a treatment plan that will accomplish their client’s goals. They often use personality, aptitude, and psychological tests to determine more precisely the needs of a particular patient. They often work closely with other mental health professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers to ensure that all of the patient’s needs are being met. Mental health counselors are also responsible for maintaining records of tests and counseling services, and making sure that all records are kept confidential. They frequently conduct research and report their findings in professional and trade journals. Anyone interested in a career as a mental health counselor should be emotionally stable, sensitive to people’s feelings, and have excellent oral and written communication skills.

Work Environment:

Mental health counselors are employed in a variety of settings including private practice, hospitals, correctional institutions, mental health clinics, schools and universities, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, halfway houses, and residential care facilities. They may work long, irregular hours including nights and weekends.

High School Preparation:

Students interested in a career in mental health counseling should take high school courses in biology, geometry, algebra, English, health occupations/medical professions education, sociology, literature, psychology, computer skills, social studies, and speech.

College Requirements:

Individuals interested in mental health counseling must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, education, sociology, or social work. Most employment opportunities for mental health counselors require a master’s degree or a doctoral degree. Voluntary certification is available through The National Board of Certified Counselors. An internship, a taped sample of clinical work, or other professional experience, as well as passing a written examination is required to receive this certification.

Students interested in counseling should contact schools for information on admission and course of study.

Facts About Clinical Mental Health Counselors

2012-02-04T03:08:00.001-08:00

What is a clinical mental health counselor?

Clinical mental health counseling is a distinct profession with national standards for education, training and clinical practice. Clinical mental health counselors are highly-skilled professionals who provide flexible, consumer-oriented therapy. They combine traditional psychotherapy with a practical, problem-solving approach that creates a dynamic and efficient path for change and problem resolution.

According to the report, "Mental Health, United States, 2004" published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's (HHS) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), more than 100,500 mental health counselors are licensed or certified for independent practice in the United States.
The majority of national behavioral health managed care companies reimburse clinical mental health counselors for services they provide.
The median cost per session for clinical mental health counselors is $63, compared to a median cost of $75 for psychologists, and $60 for clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists, according to a January 2006 study by Psychotherapy Finances.
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico license or certify mental health counselors for private practice.
Clinical mental health counselors adhere to a rigorous code of ethics and professional practice standards. Purchase a printed copy of either document

Clinical mental health counselors offer a full range of services including:

Assessment and diagnosis
Psychotherapy
Treatment planning and utilization review
Brief and solution-focused therapy
Alcoholism and substance abuse treatment
Psychoeducational and prevention programs
Crisis management

In today's managed care environment, clinical mental health counselors are uniquely qualified to meet the challenges of providing high quality care in a cost-effective manner. Clinical mental health counselors practice in a variety of settings, including independent practice, community agencies, managed behavioral health care organizations, integrated delivery systems, hospitals, employee assistance programs, and substance abuse treatment centers.
The American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) is the professional membership organization that represents the clinical mental health counseling profession. Clinical membership in AMHCA requires a master's degree in counseling or a closely related mental health field and adherence to AMHCA's National Standards for Clinical Practice.
Graduate education and clinical training prepare clinical mental health counselors to provide a full range of services for individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. The core areas of mental health education programs approved by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) include:

Diagnosis and psychopathology
Psychotherapy
Psychological testing and assessment
Professional orientation
Research and program evaluation
Group counseling
Human growth and development
Counseling theory
Social and cultural foundations
Lifestyle and career development
Supervised practicum and internship

Licensure requirements for clinical mental health counselors are equivalent to those for clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists, two other disciplines that require a master's degree for independent status.
A licensed clinical mental health counselor has met or exceeded the following professional qualifications:

Earned a master's degree in counseling or a closely related mental health discipline;
Completed a minimum of two years post-master's clinical work under the supervision of a licensed or certified mental health professional; and
Passed a state-developed or national licensure or certification examination.

A Novel Mental Health Treatment Program Dramatically Reduces Suicides

2012-02-03T10:01:00.001-08:00

If you've seen the photos of crumbling Detroit buildings that are being circulated lately, you'd probably expect the whole city to be full of miserable, despairing people, a place where a suicide rate of zero is unthinkable. Think again! Detroit is struggling but not nearly as badly as those photos suggest, and this Crain's article on the Henry Ford Health System that serves southeast Michigan suggests that "perfect" depression care is entirely possible even in an area that's going through tough times:

"The bigger issue was this culture change that we eventually implemented which simply did not accept the notion that people would kill themselves, the idea that zero would be our goal," says Ed Coffey, a physician who is vice president at the Henry Ford system and CEO of its behavioral health services division. The division has a staff of about 500 and provides mental health and substance-abuse services through its integrated delivery system of two hospitals and 10 clinics that serves Southeast Michigan and adjacent states. "That to me was the biggest thing and the key lever that allowed us to accomplish the success we had," he said.
...The Perfect Depression Care initiative includes six major tactics: commit to "perfection" (zero suicides) as a goal; develop a clear vision of how each patient's care will change; listen to patients regarding their care redesign; conceptualize, design and test strategies for improving patient partnership, clinical practice, access to care and information systems; implement relevant measures of care quality, assess progress and adjust as needed; and communicate the results.
Within the first four years of the program, the annual rate of patient suicides in the behavioral health services department dropped 75 percent to about 22 per 100,000 -- the average rate between 2002 and 2005 -- from 89 suicides per 100,000 at the baseline in 2000, according to an April 2007 article in the Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety. In the past two years, or the last 10 consecutive quarters, the department has not seen one patient suicide.

Playing Around With Depression

2012-02-03T10:00:00.001-08:00

A new study out of East Carolina University found that playing casual, non-violent video games - in particular "Bejeweled","Peggle" and "Bookworm" - reduced depression symptoms in study participants.
The study, which was underwritten by PopCap games, found that, of the 59 people who participated in the study, the half that spent an average of 40.7 minutes playing the games had a 57% reduction in their depression symptoms.
The seven subjects who were identified as having moderate to severe depression symptoms prior to study had their symptoms reduced to minimal or mild following the study, while the numbers of those who had milder forms of depression prior to the study dropped from nine to four.
The study found that there was a 65% overall improvement in general mood and anxiety, in addition to a reduction in physical symptoms, such as tension (49.6%), anger (55%), confusion (50%) and fatigue (58%).
In a statement, lead author Dr. Carmen Russoniello said, "The results of this study clearly demonstrate the intrinsic value of certain casual games in terms of significant, positive effects on the moods and anxiety levels of people suffering from any level of depression."
"In my opinion," Russoniello concluded,"the findings support the possibility of using prescribed casual video games for treating depression and anxiety as an adjunct to, or perhaps even as a replacement for, standard therapies including medication."

How Does Exercise Improve Mental Health?

2012-02-03T09:59:00.001-08:00

We know that exercise has positive effects on the brain. Researchers at Duke University demonstrated several years ago that exercise has antidepressant properties. Other research has shown that exercise can improve the brain functioning of the elderly and may even protect against dementia. How does exercise improve mental health?
One theory for some of the benefits of exercise include the fact that exercise triggers the production of endorphins. These natural opiates are chemically similar to morphine. They may be produced as natural pain relievers in response to the shock that the body receives during exercise. However, researchers are beginning to question whether endorphins improve mood. Studies are showing that the body's metabolism of endorphins is complex, and there are likely additional mechanisms involved in the mental health effects of exercise.
Some studies have found that exercise boosts activity in the brain's frontal lobes and the hippocampus. We don't really know how or why this occurs. Animal studies have found that exercise increases levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters have been associated with elevated mood, and it is thought that antidepressant medications also work by boosting these chemicals.
Exercise has also been found to increase levels of "brain-derived neurotrophic factor" (BDNF). This substance is thought to improve mood, and it may play a role in the beneficial effects of exercise. BDNF's primary role seems to be to help brain cells survive longer, so this may also explain some of the beneficial effects of exercise on dementia.
The bottom line is that most of us feel good after exercise. Physical exercise is good for our mental health and for our brains. Someday we will understand it all better -- but we can start exercising today.

How Stress Affects Your Health and Happiness

2012-02-03T09:58:00.003-08:00

You’ve probably heard that stress can impact your health. But do you know to what extent? Because stress can weaken your immune system, it can make you more susceptible not only to major diseases such as heart disease, but can increase your risk of catching the common cold and flu. And illness can detract from your overall happiness in a significant way. The following resources can help you to better understand how stress affects your health, and find ways to stay healthier.

Your Horse's Mental Health and Happiness

2012-02-03T09:58:00.001-08:00

Much has been written about natural horse keeping, but there really is no such thing anymore. Horses under truly natural conditions run wild and free, without fences to stop their migrations. They live in herds and spend their lives foraging for food, fleeing from danger, and raising young. Unfortunately, the price for this lifestyle is a shortened lifespan, as the wild horse succumbs to disease, injury, and predators much sooner than her captive counterparts.

Your horse will be happier and mentally healthier if you can keep him under as natural conditions as possible. This means keeping him on pasture with ample grazing when weather permits. Unfortunately, many people keep their horses confined to stalls most of the day, either for convenience or because of limited land resources. This circumstance is quite unnatural for horses, and the ensuing boredom and pent-up energy can lead to all sorts of behavioral problems. To simulate more natural conditions, give your horse as much turnout time as possible so he can graze and stretch his legs.
Provide Companionship Horses are herd animals and are happiest when living with other equine companions. If you can afford to own only one horse, keeping him at a boarding facility offers the advantage of other horses for him to socialize with. If boarding isn't an option for you, then consider owning more than one horse, if at all possible. If you can't afford to buy two horses, perhaps you can adopt a homeless horse from a rescue shelter. If you have enough land, consider keeping someone else's horse on your property so that both animals have a companion and you have a riding buddy.

Author of Hormones Health and Happiness

2012-02-03T09:57:00.001-08:00

Information about the controversial Dr. Steven Hotze, author of the book Hormones Health and Happiness, and founder of the Hotze Health and Wellness Center.

In this article, Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames weigh in with their thoughts on the AACE, CBS, Dr. Steven Hotze controversy, and the overall implications for the thyroid community.

All out war is being waged between Dr. Steven Hotze, author of "Hormones, Health and Happiness," and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). The controversy centers on an appearance Dr. Hotze made on the CBS Early Show on September 19, 2005, to discuss his book. Hotze made a head-on assault against conventional endocrinology -- along with its main source of funding, Synthroid, and the AACE has fired back. Explore the controversy with patient advocate Mary Shomon.

Physical, Emotional and Lifestyle Effects of Stress

2012-02-03T09:56:00.003-08:00

Stress can affect you in many ways. People often notice the emotional effects of stress, but aren't always aware of all of the ways stress can have a physical impact. Learn more about the effects of stress, and how to safeguard your health and happiness.

When you experience stress, there's a cascade of physical changes that occur to prepare you to deal with it. Here's what happens in your body--and what can happen when your stress response is triggered too often.

Mental Illness - Mental Disorders

2012-02-03T09:56:00.001-08:00

Information about different mental disorders. Diagnosis is not always exact, and some of these disorders overlap. Most of the content is in the "More Categories" folders in the right-hand column.

Living with a mental health condition means not only taking efforts to manage it, but coping with the ways in which it can affect your life and those in it. If you're faced with a mental health concern, or if you are the loved one of someone who is, there are things you can do to help make way for a better life.

Mental health and development

2012-02-03T09:55:00.001-08:00

The new WHO report on mental health and development is a call to action to all development stakeholders - governments, civil society, multilateral agencies, bilateral agencies, global partnerships, private foundations, academic and research institutions - to focus their attention on mental health.
The report presents compelling evidence that persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities are a vulnerable group but continue to be marginalized in terms of development aid and government attention. It makes the case for reaching out to this group through the design and implementation of appropriate policies and programmes and through the inclusion of mental health interventions into broader poverty reduction and development strategies. The report also describes a number of key interventions which can provide a starting point for these efforts. By investing in persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities, development outcomes can be improved.

How Does Exercise Improve Mental Health?

2012-02-03T09:54:00.003-08:00

Mental Health and the Holidays

2012-02-03T09:54:00.001-08:00

As Christmas and New Year's draw closer, many of us are bracing for changes to our routines that could shake anyone's mental health. Travel and jetlag, a break from the rigid schedule of work or school, meals at unusual times, and the distractions of family can all contribute to forgetting to take medication. Many therapists and other mental health providers are out of reach while they enjoy their own celebrations (and hard-earned rest). Holiday stress may worsen mental health conditions, and while holiday joy is a wonderful thing, January can be a real let-down.

A Novel Mental Health Treatment Program Dramatically Reduces Suicides

2012-02-03T09:53:00.001-08:00

"The bigger issue was this culture change that we eventually implemented which simply did not accept the notion that people would kill themselves, the idea that zero would be our goal," says Ed Coffey, a physician who is vice president at the Henry Ford system and CEO of its behavioral health services division. The division has a staff of about 500 and provides mental health and substance-abuse services through its integrated delivery system of two hospitals and 10 clinics that serves Southeast Michigan and adjacent states. "That to me was the biggest thing and the key lever that allowed us to accomplish the success we had," he said.
...The Perfect Depression Care initiative includes six major tactics: commit to "perfection" (zero suicides) as a goal; develop a clear vision of how each patient's care will change; listen to patients regarding their care redesign; conceptualize, design and test strategies for improving patient partnership, clinical practice, access to care and information systems; implement relevant measures of care quality, assess progress and adjust as needed; and communicate the results.
Within the first four years of the program, the annual rate of patient suicides in the behavioral health services department dropped 75 percent to about 22 per 100,000 -- the average rate between 2002 and 2005 -- from 89 suicides per 100,000 at the baseline in 2000, according to an April 2007 article in the Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety. In the past two years, or the last 10 consecutive quarters, the department has not seen one patient suicide.

Launch of Mental Health Atlas 2011

2012-02-03T09:52:00.001-08:00

The WHO Mental Health Atlas 2011 represents the latest estimate of global mental health resources available to prevent and treat mental disorders and help protect the human rights of people living with these conditions. It presents data from 184 WHO Member States, covering 98% of the world’s population. Facts and figures presented in Atlas indicate that resources for mental health remain inadequate. The distribution of resources across regions and income groups is substantially uneven and in many countries resources are extremely scarce. Results from Atlas reinforce the urgent need to scale up resources and care for mental health within countries.The WHO Mental Health Atlas 2011 represents the latest estimate of global mental health resources available to prevent and treat mental disorders and help protect the human rights of people living with these conditions. It presents data from 184 WHO Member States, covering 98% of the world’s population. Facts and figures presented in Atlas indicate that resources for mental health remain inadequate. The distribution of resources across regions and income groups is substantially uneven and in many countries resources are extremely scarce. Results from Atlas reinforce the urgent need to scale up resources and care for mental health within countries.

Perinatal Mental Health

2012-02-03T04:04:00.000-08:00

The Perinatal Mental Health Consultation Service (PMHCS) is a tertiary service provided by Mental Health ACT. It is a consultation and liaison service specialising in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of women experiencing significant mental health issues in the preconception, antenatal and postnatal periods. The service provides a one and a half day a week clinic staffed by a Psychiatrist, Registrar, Psychologists and a Registered Nurse. Please be aware that this tertiary service does not provide clinical management or “supportive counselling”
PMHCS does not offer clinical management or provide crisis assessments. If you have a client who requires these services, please contact the Mental Health Crisis Assessment Treatment Team on 1800 629 354.

Information on the Mental Health Act

2012-02-03T03:58:00.001-08:00

Mental Health Act 1983

The Mental Health Act 1983 primarily deals with the detention in hospital of people with mental disorders, as well as other compulsory measures including guardianship and supervised community treatment. It sets out the criteria that must be met before compulsory measures can be taken, along with protections and safeguards for patients.

Mental Health Act 2007

The Mental Health Act 2007 received Royal Assent on 19 July 2007. It made a number of amendments to the Mental Health Act 1983. It also extended the rights of victims by amending the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 and amended the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005 to introduce new deprivation of liberty safeguards.