mental health problems

Removing barriers: the facts about mental health and employment

This paper looks at barriers to employment for people with mental health problems and at efforts that are being made to support their efforts to find and sustain work. Barriers include: stigma and discrimination; low expectations and a lack of resources; financial disincentives. There is some discussion of government policy and the Pathways to Work scheme.

Employment and mental health: assessing the economic impact and the case for intervention

The importance of employment and its links with mental health are summarised and the European policy context described. The report then asks what the consequences of poor mental health for economic activity are, if a trend in productivity losses over time can be seen and what we know about employment rates for people with mental health problems. Barriers to employment, the economic case for helping such people remain in the workforce, assessing the cost effectiveness of interventions to this end, legislative and policy actions, and the way forward are discussed.

Up and running? : exercise therapy and the treatment of mild or moderate depression in primary care

This resource discuses exercise therapy as a treatment for mild or moderate depression. The report looks at research which indicates incidences of GP 'prescriptions' for exercise in the treatment of depression are low. The Mental Health Foundation is embarking on a campaign to promote exercise referral, the aim of which is to remove the main obstacle to the use of exercise therapy as a first-line treatment for mild or moderate depression in primary care – the failure of information to reach those who may be able to use it. Up and Running? marks the beginning of this campaign.

Dignity in care web site

Dignity in Care is a campaign being run by the Department of Health's website in the UK. It "aims to eliminate tolerance of indignity in health and social care services through raising awareness and inspiring people to take action." The focus of the campaign has mainly been on older people but has now been extended to include people with mental health needs. The website provides further information on the different aspects of the campaign, including relevant publications.