Mental Health in the EU: A Comparative Analysis of Specialist Services

By 2030, mental health problems are projected to become the second greatest threat to global health, according to the World Health Organization. The European Union has acknowledged the growing concern, with varying degrees of patient numbers and facilities across EU countries. Historically, EU mental healthcare services have been evaluated based on measurable aspects such as throughput, costs, and outcome measures. However, little is known about the experiences, perceptions, and values of those who access and provide these services.

This groundbreaking book takes a distinctive approach, focusing on nursing and examining the state of specialist mental health services in nine EU countries: the Czech Republic, Finland, Ireland, Greece, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Portugal. Each chapter delves into a single country, exploring existing services, their development, treatment options, care provisions, and obstacles to better service delivery, as well as suggestions for improvement.

A rich pattern of differences emerges, allowing for informative comparisons between countries. The book also investigates the development of an EU mental health identity, including the selection, training, and education of mental health personnel, as well as the range of services they provide.

This valuable resource is essential reading for healthcare professionals, students, and policymakers interested in mental health issues, particularly those concerned with international approaches. It provides vital new insights for European policymakers, voluntary sector personnel, and service users, as well as organizations representing them.

Key highlights of the book include:

• Comparative analysis of specialist mental health services in nine EU countries
• Examination of existing services, development, treatment options, and care provisions
• Identification of obstacles to better service delivery and suggestions for improvement
• Investigation into the development of an EU mental health identity

Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication Date: January 20, 2023
Language: English
ISBN: 9781138447585, 9781000887501