Promotion

Table 6.2 Mental Health National Service Framework: proposed action and examples of evidence
Action Evidence – some examples
Action across whole populations: Exercise promotion – can lead to improvements in life
satisfaction, perceptions of physical condition, self-worth and
health.
Programmes for individuals at risk
due to life events:
Programmes for vulnerable groups
Work based interventions – stress
• management interventions targeted at individuals can reduce
physical and psychological stress. To produce changes in job
satisfaction and absenteeism sources of stress in the work
environment need to be addressed.
• Group-based parenting programmes can make a significant
short-term impact on psycho-social health of mothers; longer
term impact is less clear.
Victims of child abuse: Little evidence available – some suggestion that training in
adaptive coping skills may be effective.
Domestic violence: Little evidence available. Action needed at societal, community,
family and individual level. Activity includes refuges, safe rooms,
help-lines, education, the use of mass media.
Race discrimination, refugees,
asylum seekers:
Little evidence available.
• Specific activities, such as exercise groups (see Chapter 7) for
ethnic minority women seem to improve self-esteem.
• Refugees and asylum seekers have different needs at different
stages. Psycho-social interventions may help initially to reduce
depression. Qualitative studies suggest that adult education,
including learning the language of the host country may
improve confidence and self-esteem.
People who sleep rough: Behavioural interventions for mental health problems, drug and
alcohol dependence, sexual risk behaviour can empower
homeless people, achieve long-term health gain and treatment
retention.
People in prison: Little evidence available. Interventions with suggested gain
include regular physical activity, participation in education,
training, work, art, anti-bullying strategies, cognitive/
behavioural interventions, spiritual reflection, regular contact
with family and friends.
People with drug and alcohol
problems:
Combating discrimination
(including stigma) and social
exclusion:
Brief primary care interventions; see also above.
ADULTHOOD 163
Little evidence available. Interventions mostly used: public
education, media education, legislation.