By now you're probably well aware that COVID-19 has had a huge impact on mental health around the world – 93% of countries have reported a disruption to mental health services – and marginalised populations are often most affected.
Do you know how these populations are currently being supported? Or how we can ensure they continue to get support? Over the next month, we'll be hosting a two-part discussion with a panel of experts to take a deeper look into these questions.
In Part 1 of our conversation, presenters will be covering new research and exploring the delivery of mental health care and psycho-social support in marginalised populations, with a particular focus on prisons and institutions.
The key learnings from this week's #MHForAll session are:
A number of stressors can exacerbate mental health issues in prisons. Deprivation of liberty, legal uncertainty, reduced support from loved ones, bullying, and disruptive social situation prior to entering are just some of the major stressors faced by prison populations.
In the UK, around 1 in 10 prisoners have major depression. This is significantly higher than in the general population. Many prisoners have pre-existing mental health conditions, or are at particular risk of developing problems due to challenging backgrounds.
Mental health support for prisoners can be hugely varied. Levels of support differ drastically between prisons, but support may include psychoeducation, signposting to support, help with sleep hygiene or relaxation techniques, and liaising with psychologists.
COVID-19 has created issues within the prison system. Challenges with PPE, increased restrictions, access to vaccinations and a limiting of vocational and education opportunities, have all further added to the mental health difficulties present.
Security lies at the heart of the prison system, not the creation of a therapeutic environment. A complete mindset change is needed if real improvements are to be seen for mental health in these settings.
The key learnings from this week's #MHForAll session are:
A number of stressors can exacerbate mental health issues in prisons. Deprivation of liberty, legal uncertainty, reduced support from loved ones, bullying, and disruptive social situation prior to entering are just some of the major stressors faced by prison populations.
In the UK, around 1 in 10 prisoners have major depression. This is significantly higher than in the general population. Many prisoners have pre-existing mental health conditions, or are at particular risk of developing problems due to challenging backgrounds.
Mental health support for prisoners can be hugely varied. Levels of support differ drastically between prisons, but support may include psychoeducation, signposting to support, help with sleep hygiene or relaxation techniques, and liaising with psychologists.
COVID-19 has created issues within the prison system. Challenges with PPE, increased restrictions, access to vaccinations and a limiting of vocational and education opportunities, have all further added to the mental health difficulties present.
Security lies at the heart of the prison system, not the creation of a therapeutic environment. A complete mindset change is needed if real improvements are to be seen for mental health in these settings.
The full notes are available here.