RCOT comment on DHSC mental health strategy
This strategy must go further in tackling the practical factors shaping mental health, not just symptoms and diagnoses.
Commenting on the mental health strategy announced by the Department of Health and Social Care, Head of Policy and Practice at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Joe Brunwin, said:
‘Too many people with poor mental health are getting help far too late. Shifting mental health care towards prevention, early intervention and support that enables people to live well in their communities is the right approach. However, this will only succeed if all government departments work together, linking health with education, housing and jobs.
‘Occupational therapists take a whole person approach, recognising the connection between mental and physical health and the impact they have on each other. Occupational therapists support people to build routines and take part in everyday life by enabling them to do the occupations they want and need to do.
‘This strategy must go further in tackling the practical factors shaping mental health, not just symptoms and diagnoses. Occupational therapy expertise needs to be embedded in the final strategy so people receive the right support at the right time.’