Addressing Health Inequities in People with Serious Mental Illness: A Call to Action

People with serious mental illness (SMI) die at a younger age than the general population due to preventable medical conditions. This book explores decades of research on SMI and aims to address deadly health inequities by presenting scientific data, case studies, and personal narratives. It highlights the need for interventions, programs, and policies to improve the health of this underserved population.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

People with serious mental illness (SMI; schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) face a significantly higher mortality rate compared to the general population, primarily due to preventable medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Despite advancements in access and quality of medical care for the general population, this mortality gap has persisted for decades and continues to worsen. This book delves into decades of research on SMI and raises two crucial questions: why do individuals with SMI die at an earlier age than those without these disorders? And what can be done to address these deadly health inequities?

Through comprehensive analysis and compelling storytelling, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that impact the physical health of people with SMI. The book also sheds light on the interventions, programs, and policies aimed at improving the well-being of this underserved population. It goes beyond mere data and statistics, presenting personal narratives of individuals living with SMI and grappling with physical health challenges. The book also features the stories of clinicians, researchers, and policy makers who are working tirelessly to address these health disparities.

In this comprehensive exploration, we aim to strike a balance between presenting scientific data, case studies, and personal narratives to raise awareness and foster compassion for this overlooked public health crisis. We discuss potential solutions and strategies to address these health inequities and strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 161 x 243 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190937300