Mental Health and Poverty

Description

There is strong scientific evidence that poverty is a cause of mental illness. This book brings together a body of knowledge from biomedical and social science literature that is of importance to both academics and practitioners. It explores a broad range of issues, including stigma, the recovery model and substance misuse. The role of childhood adversity is examined, together with other potential causal mechanisms. The content is accessible and engaging, with numerous references pointing readers to the best resources for further information. Poverty is not inevitable, even in a difficult economic climate. The time is ripe for a scientific consensus to inform realistic, hopeful and optimistic campaigns to reduce inequality in the interests of public health and well being. This book provides an evidence-based resource for mental health professionals, social scientists and their students. It will be of interest far beyond those professionally involved in mental health services and research.

· Sets out up-to-date scientific evidence drawn from the biomedical and social science literature
· Draws out the implications for policy making and clinical practice
· Written in an accessible and engaging style

Table of Contents

Preface
1. Severe mental illness and social factors
2. Poverty
3. Constellations of disadvantage
4. Depression and anxiety
5. Genetics
6. Substance misuse
7. Mechanisms
8. Stigma
9. Recovery
10. Working with poverty
11. Afterword
References
Index.

Authors

Rob Poole, Glyndwr University
Rob Poole is Professor of Social Psychiatry, School of Social Sciences, Bangor University; Co-Director, Centre for Mental Health and Society, North Wales; and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, Gwynedd, North Wales.

Robert Higgo, Bangor University
Robert Higgo is Consultant Psychiatrist, Mersey NHS Trust, Liverpool; Honorary Research Fellow, School of Social Sciences, Bangor University; and Associate Member, Centre for Mental Health and Society, North Wales.

Catherine A. Robinson, Bangor University
Catherine A. Robinson is Professor of Social Policy Research, School of Social Sciences, Bangor University, and Co-Director, Centre for Mental Health and Society, North Wales.