Abstract This paper relates that the IllinoisChildren's MentalHealthAct of 2003 creates legislative policy stipulating that a mentalhealth plan, which includes intervention and prevention, will be developed in the state for all children from the age of birth to 18. The author points out that the state desires to implement social education relating to mentalhealth care to change attitudes negatively impacting children with mental problems. The paper concludes that the policy process is a long and extensive venture and that it takes a great deal of commitment to the policy's ideas in order to realize its goals. The author stresses that, when creating policy, the initiators must continue to work with the issues until they have been implemented because, when others take control of the plans, the policy will be altered in a manner that was not intended.
From the Paper "The inclusion of the focus on academic achievement and the Illinois education system in the Act may indicate that there is a hidden agenda connected to the legislation. As stipulated in the Act there is a concern that the mental illness of students adversely affects their "academic readiness and school success." While there is no doubt that all Americans desire their children to be considered high academic achievers, it should also be considered that, under the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), school districts are required to ensure that students can pass standardized tests in order for the schools to remain operational."
Abstract This paper analyses issues concerning the MentalHealthAct and moral ethics using the fictitious case study of the involuntary admission to the psychiatric services of a patient called John. It provides an overview of the MentalHealthAct (1983), the effects of compulsory admission and the key people in that admission.
Outline
The MentalHealthAct and Effects of Detention
John's Treatment
For and Against Involutary Treatment of John
Nursing Duties Involved in Treating John Involuntarily
John's Best Interests and Confliction of his Wishes
Implications in Practice
Conclusion
From the Paper "The case of Sarah Lawson (The Guardian, 2001) showed that if someone is deemed to be mentally ill, and has insight into the illness and wishes to die, they can do so. This case involved a father assisting his daughter with her suicide because her mental illness impacted upon her physical health. However it is noted that this assisted suicide took place at their family home, not in hospital on a psychiatric unit. If there were to be an assisted suicide on the unit preformed by a member of staff to the case study John, this would be highly illegal and come into conflict with The Code of Practice (1999)."
Abstract This paper provides an analysis of the provisions of the Florida mentalhealthact, known as the Baker Act, that provides for involuntary examination and limited commitment of mentally disabled persons to state mental institutions as well as for judicial involvement. It looks at the background of the Baker Act and the issue of involuntary commitment.
From the Paper "This research paper summarizes the principal provisions of the Florida Mental Health Act or Baker Act FLA STAT ANN secs in so far as it deals with the involuntary commitment of mentally disabled or ill persons and analyzes its pros and ..."
Abstract This paper presents a comparison of a mentalhealth program in Canada with a mentalhealth program in the U.S. The basis of the analysis is a three-part schema for examining social welfare programs.
From the Paper "This research compares a mental health program in Canada, the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program(NSEEP) in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with a mental health program in the United States, the University of Maryland School Mental Health Program (SMHP) in Baltimore, Maryland. The framework for the comparison of the two mental health programs is a three-part schema for examining social welfare programs..."
Abstract This paper discusses infant mentalhealth. It expands on the ability to assess issues relating to infant mentalhealth as opposed to the dynamic changes in child development or normal aggression, for example, in a 4 year old. The paper also focuses on career opportunities for the Developmental Specialist working within a pediatric or clinic setting.
From the Paper "Unfortunately, although a common assumption from years ago, still today many individuals - both practitioners and parents - still believe that infants do not have the capacity to feel pain, emotion or experience dysfunction related to mental health psychopathology (Frankel, Boyum & Harmon, 2004). Gradually, the literature and research is proving these individuals wrong. However, the onus is still on the practitioner to identify these issues in infants and children 5 years of age and younger within their care based on isolated 15-20 minute visits without having the proper training to do so (Minde, Tidmarsh & Hughes, 2001). Additionally, most of the time the practitioner spends those 15-20 minutes assessing sources of physical health or pathology (Minde, Tidmarsh & Hughes, 2001). Most children are not scheduled for all of their well-baby care visits which can further complicate the problems associated with trying to assess infant mental health. According to Keren, Feldman and Tyano (2001) "defining symptoms and ..."
Abstract This brief yet concise paper details recent research which has proven that unemployment causes, rather than merely results from, poor psychological health. A study in Great Britain revealed that unemployed individuals were approximately three times more likely, than employed people, to commit suicide. This paper examines the impact of unemployment on one's mentalhealth, including: Anxiety, depression, dissatisfaction with one's life, negative self-esteem and other emotional states have each been demonstrated in complex studies to be higher in unemployed people than in similar groups of employed people.
From the Paper "For many people, the stress of being unemployed is devastating. A recent study of more than 500,000 people in Great Britain revealed that people who said they were unemployed in a 1981 census were approximately three times more likely than employed people to commit suicide in the next decade. "Job loss seems to result in a serious erosion in people's sense of control and self-esteem," says William R. Avison, Ph.D., professor of sociology and leader of the University of Western Ontario study. Because control and self-esteem are two limitations of mental health, it is understandable that unemployment affects people so deeply, he argues."
Tags:mental, health, employment, labor, physical, depression, study, research
Abstract This paper offers an analysis of Princess Diana of Wales' 1993 speech on "Women and MentalHealth" using feminist criticism. In this article, the writer discusses the strong influence of the norms and practices of a patriarchal society on the psychological well being of women.
From the Paper "Presented at a conference for mental health professionals, Princess Diana's speech 'Women and Mental Health' at the most superficial level, highlighted the existence of the psychological difficulties experienced by women. However, at a deeper level, this speech also brought up to the surface the oppressive impact of the norms and practices of patriarchal society on the psychological well-being of women. To explore this issue further, the method of feminist criticism will be employed to analyze this artifact. More specifically the research question that will ... "
Abstract This paper discusses a meta-analysis conducted on Ontario's Community MentalHealth Evaluation Initiative. The paper starts with the identification of the stakeholders, description of the program, evaluation design, evidence gathered, and conclusions reached by the evaluation. A set of 30 standards for assessing quality of evaluation activities is also done.
From the Paper "Meta-analysis of Ontario's Community Mental Health Evaluation Initiative Stakeholders The stakeholders are divided into CMHEI partners and the consumers, families and even community providers (Goering et al, 2004). The former consist of The Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario, The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), The Ontario Mental Health Foundation and The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (Goering et al, 2004). The program operators collaborated and took a direct hand in conducting this evaluation, the objective of which was to "assess the effectiveness of community-based mental health services and supports, providing evidence to support future decisions about programs and service delivery" (p. 7)."
This is a research paper outlining the current issues in mentalhealth, like the stigma that those afflicted will face. The paper looks at who was more likely to stigmatize based on age, sex and experience with mentalhealth.
Abstract This study examines who is more likely to stigmatize the mentally ill according to their experiences. Specifically, the study examines the level of knowledge each participant has about mentalhealth issues and their viewpoints on the mentally ill, and whether it is related to gender.
From the Paper "Stigma, has "traditionally been defined as a sign or mark that designates the bearer defective, and therefore as meriting less valued treatment than normal people" (Heatherton 2000:88). This view of an individual is apparent in all societies. The actual experience of stigma is common. Virtually everyone has experienced some form of stigmatization. Whether it is our personality, our dress, or our economic status. However it has been the mentally ill and former mentally ill individuals who "have traditionally been degraded and rejected; they have experienced prejudice similar to that experienced by racial and ethnic minorities" (Heatherton 2000:103). It is a fault in society to assume that everyone stigmatizes in the same way. It is the way we socialize our children that anyone different is less of a person. The mass media constantly characterizes the mentally ill as "sick", "dangerous", "worthless", "unpredictable" (Heatherton 2000:103). Literature found on mental illness usually states that stigma for the mentally ill is common to all society, but a closer look shows that it fails to differentiate between its origins. Specifically that everyone looks at the mentally ill the same way: that they are negative and violent."
Abstract This paper assess the mentalhealth and family services provided by Health Care Associates, Inc, a mentalhealth and family/youth crisis intervention organization. The paper attempts to assess the organization's effectiveness in providing services to its client population.
From the Paper "In this paper, Health Care Associates Incorporated (HCA), which specializes in providing mental health as well as family youth crisis intervention services, will be assessed. More specifically, HCA's macro-structure and its environment will be evaluated in order to explore its effectiveness in providing services to its client population. Sources that were used for the assessment of HCA included agency materials, interviews with the staff and the Internet. HCA was created to cater to the wide-ranging needs of individuals with mental health problems..."
Tags:Health Care Associates, Inc. MentalHealth Family/Youth Crisis Intervention Services- Organization Assessment
Abstract This paper provides a discussion on the topic of mentalhealth and the insurance industry. The writer uses several jumping off points to explore the benefits and the process for receiving mentalhealth care nationwide and then focuses on some of the problems and issues that are key to the state of Arizona.
From the Paper "In recent years society has begun to remove the stigma that was once attached to mental illness and accept that it is a reality of life just as physical health is. We used to shun those who had mental illness or lock them away in institutions thereby preventing them from becoming contributing members of society. This caused those who needed to seek help to be silent about their problem for fear of being ostracized. In more recent years the stigma has begun to disappear and the result has been more people than ever before coming forth and seeking treatment for various mental health issues. This has created an overload in the system and it has developed some important eye openers when it comes to the health insurance industry regarding the way it handles mental health coverage. In many areas of the nation mental health needs are just not being met by insurance coverage. In other areas they are. It depends on the insurance policy itself as well as the state legislators and their votes. The state of Arizona is beginning to show some promise in the area of mental health coverage however there is still much work to be done before it will adequately meet the needs of its residents."
Abstract This paper provides an in depth explanation of occupational mentalhealth practice. The author discusses those circumstances in the work environment which effects the behaviors of the workers and which influence personal well being and the performance of a job. The author provides explanations about causes of work maladjustment and treatments for the symptoms.
From the Paper "Occupational mental health practice concerns those circumstances in the work environment which effects the thoughts, feelings and behaviors of the workers and which influence personal well being and the performance of a job. The goals are to promote conditions favorable to mental health in the workplace and to identify and modify unfavorable conditions" (Mickleburgh, 1986 page 426). There are various approaches or models that attempt to explain occupational adjustment. These approaches are viewed in a variety of ways. They vary from biological, psychological and sociocultural perspectives."
Tags: employee, employer, health, organization, work, adjustment, relation, health
Abstract The writer of this informative paper defines and explains the concerns and goals of the Occupational Safety and HealthAct of 1970 (OSHA) which is applicable to all employers and their employees in the U.S. as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. This paper analyzes the Federal OSHA standards which are categorized into four main groups comprised of general industry, construction, maritime and agriculture. This paper examines those individuals and industries which are exempt from OSHA's requirements and regulations including self-employed individuals and farms which employ only family members of the actual owner. This paper details the various conditions employers must adhere to when complying with OSHA's standards and regulations. The writer contends that the adherence to the standards may incorporate ensuring that employees are supplied with the necessary safeguards and tools to guarantee their personal safety and health. This paper also delves into the legal rights of both the employer and employee in matters pertaining to OSHA.
From the Paper "The Federal OSHA standards are categorized into four major groups such as general industry, construction, maritime and agriculture while some standards are particular to just one category others are applicable across industries. The regulation necessitates the employer to grant the employee access to any medical records the employer maintains with regard to that employee, incorporating any records about the exposure of employees to toxic substances. The standard of personal protective equipment requires the employers to extend the employees with personal equipment devised to safeguard them against some hazards. The equipment can extend from safeguarded helmets to avoid head injuries in construction and cargo transportation work, to protect the eyes, safeguard the hearing capabilities etc. The California Legislature enacted the California Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1973 in order to ensure the workers safe and healthy working environment for all Californian working men and women."
Abstract This paper examines the American health care system and suggests methods of creating universal access to health care. The paper explains that health care should be considered a right for all citizens; a constitutional amendment would make this proposition mandatory. The paper points out that, at its root, the lack of health care for all in America is fundamentally a moral issue. The paper suggests that the United States follow its industrialized, wealthy counterparts and demand universal health care. It explains that the desire for universal health care is apparent and cites examples of states which are implementing a near-universal health care system. The writer proposes that the U.S. pass the United States National Health Insurance Act, or the Expanded and Improved Medicare for All Act. The writer further explains that this act establishes the United States National Health Insurance (USNHI) Program to provide all individuals residing in the United States and in U.S. territories with free health care, including all medically necessary care, such as primary care and prevention, prescription drugs, emergency care, and mentalhealth services.
Outline:
Universal Healthcare in Other Countries
United States National Health Insurance Act The Uninsured: College Students
Children's Health Care
Preventative Health Care
Eliminating Disparities
Conclusion
From the Paper "More health care clinics geared toward minority populations could also be beneficial; citizens would feel more comfortable in settings that recognize their specific needs. Cultural and linguistic competence is mandatory. More classes in medical school concerning minority health care issues should be implemented. More minority members should be in the health care system. This would increase patient participation in care processes, ensuring grater satisfaction and adherence to treatment. The regulations in the system should be transparent and open to the public. A department in the government should be primarily focused on minority health care. The heath care system should be as diverse as our country."
Tags: primary, care, prescription, drugs, emergency, care, mental, health, services
Abstract In this article the writer points out that in any institution, which is partially or completely funded by public moneys, mandates determine resources and offerings. Further the writer notes that mandates can be determined by legislation, legal precedence or local sentiment, all of which is biased in favor of or against services they have experienced or would like those served to experience, yet is rarely determined by actual visible need of the population served. The writer argues that mentalhealth services have historically been skirted in public institutions and bodies, as the social stigma associated with mental illness is dependant upon public sentiment and that public sentiment is the driving force behind mandates. That having been said, this work establishes that there is no public policy that mandates mentalhealth services be provided in public schools. The writer highlights that this is despite legislation that is intended to provide equal services to the disabled, such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act that in theory offers services to those with disabilities.
From the Paper "The legislation itself demands arbitrary assignment of the SED label by giving schools and administrators, but not necessarily mental health professionals an out. School administrators, especially in public schools often must make decisions associated with the greater good, as they must serve a large population of students with minimal resources. As socially disruptive behavior further taxes the system and the providers of it those who are deemed socially disruptive, or seen to have the potential to be are therefore excluded from the SED label and likely excluded from mental health services."
