HEALTH PROMOTION PACKAGES - Sundhedsstyrelsen

5 Recommendations – mental healthThe recommended actions are described and listed as either basic (B) or developmental(D). The basic level includes basic action based on the current best evidence,whereas the developmental level typically builds on the basic level and requires,among other things, a higher level of proactivity and developing new competencies.All actions at the basic and developmental levels have been selected so that theycontribute to reducing social inequities in health. The basic actions primarily targetthe social gradient in health, which means that people’s burden of disease rises systematicallywith lower education levels and income. The actions are universal andare offered to people in large target groups or settings, such as first-time parents,schoolchildren or municipal workplaces. The developmental actions are more suitedto target vulnerable or disadvantaged children and adults who are supportedthrough early action and thus experience better opportunities for improved healthand well-being.The best effects are generally achieved if the municipality gives priority to universalactions while ensuring that vulnerable and disadvantaged people receive thehelp and support they need.To the extent possible, we have placed corresponding basic and developmental actionsafter each other to make it clear which developmental actions build on basicactions. The efforts to promote mental health are subdivided into four categories:plans and policies, health promotion services, information efforts and early detection.The relevant target groups are indicated under each category.References to reading to inspire action, etc. are given along the way. However, farfrom all referenced material is available in English. We have included Danish materialin these English recommendations to show that much more inspiration isavailable. All titles have been translated into English to facilitate understanding,but they may link to information in Danish.5.1 Plans and policies(B) Integrating mental health policy into the overall health policyThe municipality prepares an intersectoral mental health policy as an integral partof the municipal health policy. The mental health policy may include adopted targetsand plans to promote mental health among children and young people, adultsand older people and vulnerable and disadvantaged people. The policy is multiprongedand could comprise the actions from the basic level of this health promotionpackage on mental health.(B) Linking the mental health policy and the child welfare policyThe municipality links the municipal mental health policy to the coherent children’swelfare policy the municipality is obligated to prepare pursuant to § 19(2) ofthe Social Services Act.(B) Basic level(D) Developmental levelHealth promotion packages in Denmark – introduction and recommendations 25