Introduction
The news article selected for this assignment was published on the WHO website. The article discusses a WHO report on the state of global mental health, which calls on governments, academics, health professionals, and civil society to support the world in transforming mental health. In 2019, nearly a billion people, including 14% of the world’s adolescents, were living with a mental disorder (World Health Organization, 2022). Suicide accounted for more than 1 in 100 deaths and 58% of suicides occurred before age 50 (World Health Organization, 2022). The report also highlights that mental disorders are the leading cause of disability, causing 1 in 6 years lived with disability. The report calls for an increase in access to mental health services, shifting focus from hospital-based to community-based care, and addressing the social determinants of mental health. The WHO stresses the importance of addressing the social determinants of mental health, such as poverty, unemployment, and discrimination, as well as addressing the mental health needs of marginalized and vulnerable groups, such as refugees and people with disabilities.
Discussion
The report also highlights that stigma, discrimination, and human rights violations against people with mental health conditions are widespread in communities and care systems everywhere, and 20 countries still criminalize attempted suicide (World Health Organization, 2022). The report finds that even before the COVID-19 pandemic, only a small fraction of people in need had access to effective, affordable, and quality mental health care. For example, 71% of those with psychosis worldwide do not receive mental health services (World Health Organization, 2022). While 70% of people with psychosis are reported to be treated in high-income countries, only 12% of people with psychosis receive mental health care in low-income countries (World Health Organization, 2022). The report calls on all stakeholders to work together to deepen the value and commitment given to mental health, reshape the environments that influence mental health, and strengthen the systems that care for people’s mental health.
Mental health is a major social problem that affects a large proportion of the global population. According to the given news article, one in four people will be affected by mental illness at some point in their lives, and mental disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide. Suicide is a significant issue, accounting for a high number of deaths globally, particularly in young people. Access to mental health care is limited, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and stigma and discrimination against people with mental health conditions are widespread, resulting in human rights violations. The social problem of mental health is further compounded by factors such as poverty, unemployment, discrimination, and other global crises such as war and natural disasters.
The social problem of mental health has significant implications for social welfare policies and services. One major implication is the need for increased funding and resources for mental health services. This includes providing access to affordable and effective mental health care for all individuals, particularly for marginalized and disadvantaged groups who often have limited access to such services. Another implication is the need for the integration of mental health services into primary health care. This would make it easier for individuals to access mental health services, as well as allow for better coordination between physical and mental health care. Additionally, there is a need to shift focus from hospital-based care to community-based care, which can be more effective and cost-efficient, and also allows for better integration of mental health services into individuals’ daily lives.
Another important aspect of social welfare policies and services is addressing the social determinants of mental health, such as poverty, unemployment, and discrimination. This can be done by providing support for individuals and families facing these challenges, as well as implementing policies and programs that address the root causes of these issues. Furthermore, addressing the human rights violations, discrimination, and stigma that people with mental health conditions often face is crucial. This can be achieved by promoting awareness, education, and encouraging empathy, as well as by implementing laws and policies to protect the rights of people with mental health conditions.
The relationship between the problem of mental health and social work is complex and multifaceted. Social workers play a vital role in addressing the social problem of mental health through the provision of direct services, advocacy, and policy development. One of the key roles of social workers in addressing the problem of mental health is the provision of direct services to individuals, families, and communities affected by mental health issues. This may include providing counseling and therapy, as well as case management and support services. Social workers also play an important role in advocating for the rights and needs of people with mental health conditions and working to reduce the stigma and discrimination that they often face.
Conclusion
Social workers also have an important role in developing and implementing policies and programs that address the social determinants of mental health. They work with other professionals, organizations, and agencies to address issues such as poverty, unemployment, and discrimination that can have a significant impact on mental health. Social workers are also involved in the development and implementation of mental health policies and programs at local, national, and international levels. They work with other professionals, organizations, and agencies to ensure that mental health policies and programs are evidence-based, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of diverse communities.
Reference
World Health Organization. (2022). WHO highlights urgent need to transform mental health and mental health care. Web.