Posted by akc on September 15, 2001, at 13:59:13
In reply to Ways to fix the mental health system, posted by NLFAmerica on September 15, 2001, at 11:32:04
I know this poster has been blocked (see PBA), but without getting into a long discusion of the theoretically concepts behind the idea, the idea of separating "health" from "illness" seems illogical to me. I've read the Surgeon General's report on Mental Health. One of the strong points of the report is that we need to focus in the country on mental health -- on mental well-being. To help people before they develop a serious mental illness. To teach people behaviors that assist them in remaining healthy. To intervene in homes to remove some of the destructive influences that hurt people when they are young. But then the report goes on to talk about treating those who have a mental illness. How we have so many tools in the arsenal and are gaining new ones each day to treat mental illness -- to bring folks back to mental health. Just as with physical health and illness, are not these concepts intertwined? Are they not the opposite sides of the coin?
So the early quote of this article by the poster makes no sense to me -- that we must "divorce mental health from mental illness." The rest of the article -- I believe the author is good hearted -- the ideas behind it are at heart the idea that mental health/illness have for so long been under a horrible stigma. But as with the earlier posts, I don't see it necessary to role all disciplines into one -- nor all lobbys.
In fact, I think a multifaceted approach is probably healthy. What insights might we gain because different disciplines are studying the problem? What progress might we make in Congress because different groups are approaching congressional leaders and members? What educational opportunities are we given because there are many local organizations working to end the stigma and to bring help to those who need it?
Should these disciplines/groups work more closely together? Definitely. This week only proves how deadly differences can ultimately be. While philosophies may differ, it is time to share research and ideas, not defend turf.
And most of all, it is sure time to give up this idea that there is only one way.
akc
poster:akc
thread:11406
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20010915/msgs/11409.html