Making Decisions in Compulsory Mental Health Work: Boundaries, Frames and Perspectives

This book explores assessment, detention, compulsion, and coercion in mental health settings, focusing on decision-making in various professional roles and incorporating lived experience perspectives. It emphasizes theory into practice and is essential for developing reflexive and critical analytical skills.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This comprehensive book is designed to provide comprehensive support for training and continuing professional development (CPD) in compulsory mental health work. It delves into the complex issues of assessment, detention, compulsion, and coercion within various mental health settings. By focusing on decision-making in diverse professional roles involving individuals from diverse backgrounds, including first-hand accounts from people with lived experience of mental health services, the book aims to enhance reflexive and critical analytical skills. With a strong emphasis on theory-to-practice, it serves as a valuable resource for professionals seeking to improve their understanding and application of mental health legislation.

The book begins with introductory and concluding chapters that provide a comprehensive overview of the key themes and offer insights into the future of mental health legislation. It then delves into various aspects of assessment, detention, compulsion, and coercion, exploring the ethical, legal, and practical considerations involved. The authors draw on their extensive experience in the field to provide practical examples and case studies that illustrate the challenges and opportunities faced by professionals in these settings.

One of the key strengths of the book is its emphasis on critical reflection techniques. These techniques help professionals to reflect on their own practice, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies for working more effectively with individuals experiencing mental health difficulties. The book includes a range of exercises and activities that can be used to facilitate critical reflection, including case studies, role-plays, and group discussions.

Another important aspect of the book is its focus on the importance of collaboration and teamwork in mental health work. The authors highlight the importance of working with other professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists, to provide comprehensive and effective care. They also discuss the challenges of working in multidisciplinary teams and offer strategies for overcoming these challenges.

The book also covers a range of other important topics, including the use of medication in mental health treatment, the impact of mental health on families and communities, and the role of advocacy and self-advocacy in mental health. It includes contributions from people with lived experience of mental health services, which provide valuable insights into the experiences of individuals and their families.

In conclusion, this comprehensive book is an essential resource for all professionals making decisions under mental health legislation and those developing, teaching, and supporting practitioners in the workplace. It provides a comprehensive overview of the key themes and offers practical examples and case studies to illustrate the challenges and opportunities faced by professionals in these settings. With a strong emphasis on theory-to-practice, it serves as a valuable tool for improving the quality of mental health care and promoting the well-being of individuals and communities.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 170 x 244 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447362890