Actions to alleviate the mental health impact of the economic
crisis |
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Authors: | KRISTIAN WAHLBECK DAVID MCDAID |
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Institution: | 1Finnish Association for Mental Health, Maistraatinportti 4 A, FI-00240 Helsinki, Finland;2LSE Health and Social Care and European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, London School of Economics and Poltiical Science, London, UK |
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Abstract: | The current global economic crisis is expected to produce adverse mental
health effects that may increase suicide and alcohol-related death rates in
affected countries. In nations with greater social safety nets, the health
impacts of the economic downturn may be less pronounced. Research indicates
that the mental health impact of the economic crisis can be offset by various
policy measures. This paper aims to outline how countries can safeguard and
support mental health in times of economic downturn. It indicates that good
mental health cannot be achieved by the health sector alone. The determinants
of mental health often lie outside of the remits of the health system, and
all sectors of society have to be involved in the promotion of mental health.
Accessible and responsive primary care services support people at risk and
can prevent mental health consequences. Any austerity measures imposed on
mental health services need to be geared to support the modernization of mental
health care provision. Social welfare supports and active labour market programmes
aiming at helping people retain or re-gain jobs can counteract the mental
health effects of the economic crisis. Family support programmes can also
make a difference. Alcohol pricing and restrictions of alcohol availability
reduce alcohol harms and save lives. Support to tackle unmanageable debt will
also help to reduce the mental health impact of the crisis. While the current
economic crisis may have a major impact on mental health and increase mortality
due to suicides and alcohol-related disorders, it is also a window of opportunity
to reform mental health care and promote a mentally healthy lifestyle. |
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Keywords: | Mental health economic crisis suicide prevention social policy |
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