Mental Health in Scotland: Improving the Physical Health and Well Being of those Experiencing Mental Illness

Linked initiatives

The following examples are offered for consideration in advancing the aims set out in this guidance.

Towards a Mentally Flourishing Scotland, ( TAMFS)⁴⁵

Mental health improvement and population mental health work is a key aspect of the Scottish Government National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Wellbeing ⁴⁶. The TAMFS report outlines the proposed future direction for Local Authorities, NHS Boards and other partners in addressing health inequalities. The report emphasises the links between physical and mental health and improved quality of life.

Gaun Yersel- Being Human⁴⁷

The Long Term Conditions Alliance Scotland has developed a strategy for self management with the aim that people living with a long term condition have access to the support they need to successfully manage their condition. The strategy raises the importance of a person centred empowering approach to help people make changes and identify areas where they need support, and outlines specific aims for the NHS and statutory organisations.

Living Better⁴⁸

In keeping with the Commitment published in 2006, to improve assessment and treatment models for those with depression and anxiety, work is underway in partnership with the Royal College of General Practitioners, and others to evaluate the effectiveness of local stepped care pathways (such as training; skills development; service improvements; partnership working etc) in reducing co-morbid depression and anxiety in coronary heart disease and diabetes.

Closing the Gap⁴⁹

National policy on the treatment of those with substance misuse problems is firmly directed toward addressing not only the immediate needs of addiction but also the underlying difficulties, often present, which include physical and mental health.

The National Quality Standards for Substance Misuse (2006) ⁵⁰

These standards make it clear that clients need to be involved at all stages of assessment and care planning and that Services should work with a wide range of partners, including other services, to ensure that client needs are met.

National Strategy for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse ¹⁷

The Strategy, Survivor Scotland is a Scottish Government initiative. It sets out a way forward to improve services for male and female survivors, to ensure greater priority and joined-up working in national and local mainstream services, and improve the lives of all who have suffered such trauma. The Strategy includes a number of initiatives to improve the physical and mental health of affected individuals.