posted 26th May 2024
Mental Health: Enablement and Social Inclusion
Mental health challenges affect a significant portion of the UK population. In research compiled by Mind, it is said approximately 25% of people deal with a mental health issue each year. Additionally, in any given week, one out of six individuals in England report suffering from common mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
While there's an increased awareness and understanding of the impact of mental health problems, these stats underscore the need for effective support and intervention. That's where two components, enablement and social inclusion, can play an important role. By forming an environment where people feel empowered and included, it can promote effective recovery and enhance the overall wellbeing of those affected.
Disadvantages for people living with mental health problems
People living with mental health problems often experience a number of major disadvantages, affecting everything from their personal relationships to career aspirations. Below is a closer look at some of the main disadvantages:
• Social isolation: Social isolation and loneliness are often experienced by those with mental health issues. The stigma that continues to exist around mental health can cause individuals to be excluded from social activities and networks. As it may reduce social interactions and exacerbate mental health problems, this creates a vicious cycle where the lack of social support further impacts mental wellbeing.
• Employment challenges: Maintaining employment can be difficult for individuals with mental health issues. Due to the potential for mental health to fluctuate, it might lead to higher rates of absenteeism and presenteeism. This hampers job performance and career progression. Additionally, it could result in fewer opportunities and job insecurity, with the latter making it harder for people to sustain long-term employment.
• Financial instability: Financial instability is a common issue faced by people with mental health problems. Alongside the disadvantage mentioned above of being unable to work or maintain steady employment, they can also deal with increased medical expenses for therapy, medication, and other treatments.
• Access to healthcare: For those with mental health issues, access to healthcare can be limited in certain regards. Long wait times for mental health services, as well as limited availability of specialised care, can hinder timely, effective treatment. The issue can be further exacerbated by geographic concerns. This is because rural areas in the UK often possess fewer mental health resources.
• Education and personal development: Mental health issues can adversely affect education and personal development. Academic performance and educational attainment may suffer due to difficulties in concentration, memory problems, and fatigue. The knock-on effect of these challenges can place a restrictive hold on personal development.
These disadvantages highlight the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals with mental health problems - along with the need for comprehensive support systems to address these challenges.
How Care Providers Can Help
Care providers can play a key role in reducing social isolation for individuals with mental health problems. By offering personalised and comprehensive support, they can significantly improve the wellbeing of those affected.
One effective strategy we use at Altair is to provide support at home. This allows people to live as independently as possible, all while receiving the necessary care for their conditions. Personalised care plans, when developed in collaboration with the client, ensure the support lines up with their wishes and needs. This helps individuals regain essential life skills and build confidence - vital steps to reducing social isolation.
Another essential approach is collaboration with community mental health teams and families. By working together, care providers are better prepared to deliver customised care packages which address the specific needs of each individual. This unified methodology delivers a comprehensive support system that promotes recovery and social inclusion.
Care providers also facilitate access to community activities and resources. Encouraging participation in social, educational, and vocational activities paves the way for individuals to build social networks and reduce feelings of isolation. When there's a focus on enhancing motivation, confidence, and self-esteem, these activities can be especially beneficial in fostering a sense of belonging.
Don't overlook that continuous, responsive support is imperative. Care providers should offer services that are accessible 24/7, as this can address any immediate needs and supply ongoing assistance. Individuals gain a reliable support system, reducing the risk of isolation and promoting continuous recovery.
Effective Activities for Enablement and Reablement
To support individuals with mental health problems, two key elements are required: enablement and reablement. By engaging in structured activities which promote skill development, confidence, and social inclusion, it helps people regain their independence and improve their overall quality of life.
Here are several recommended activities for enablement and reablement:
Life skills training
Cooking and meal preparation: Teaching individuals how to plan, shop for, and prepare healthy meals gives them added confidence in their ability to take care of themselves. This activity also encourages healthier eating habits - another aspect which can positively impact mental health.
Budgeting and financial management: When given training on managing finances - which includes everything from paying bills to saving money - can equip individuals with essential skills for independent living. The result: a reduction in stress and anxiety related to financial instability.
Physical exercise and wellness programs
Regular exercise routines: Walking, yoga, group sports - whatever the physical activity, it can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It also promotes physical health, which is closely linked to mental wellbeing.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Teaching mindfulness practices - think meditation and deep-breathing exercises - can help individuals manage stress and improve their overall mental health.
Social and recreational activities
Group therapy sessions: Group therapy offers a supportive environment, one where individuals can share their experiences and learn from others. This builds a sense of community and reduces feelings of isolation.
Educational and vocational training
Skill development workshops: Whether it is computer literacy, job interview techniques, or vocational training, offering workshops on various skills can empower people to pursue educational and employment opportunities. Along with enhancing their self-esteem, it can also provide a sense of purpose.
By adding enablement and reablement activities like these into their care plans, individuals with mental health problems can experience significant improvements in their ability to live independently and engage meaningfully with their communities.