Chapter 13 - Preconceptions and the reality of mental illness. In all practice settings nurses will encounter patients with mental health problems. This chapter considers society’s’ misconceptions and encourages the reader to question and examine their own views, feelings and attitudes towards mental illness. | Chapter 13 Preconceptions and the Reality of Mental Illness Introduction In all practice settings nurses will encounter patients with mental health problems. This presentation considers societies’ misconceptions and encourages the student to question and examine their own views, feelings and attitudes towards mental illness. Acquiring an awareness of the different ways that mental illness can manifest itself is essential if nurses are to work effectively and provide the most appropriate treatment for an individual. Developing empathic and non-judgemental attitudes are a central part of nursing practice, consistent with the role of advocate, stated within the professional nursing Code of Conduct (NMC, 2004). Background At any one time a significant number of the adult population experience mental illness and the majority live within the community. Despite being so widespread mental illness is still frequently misunderstood and often the subject of stigma. Government policy has been to promote social inclusion of people with mental health problems (DoH, 2004). It is vital that modern nursing not only understands how mental illness affects people but also promotes positive values and non-discriminatory practice. Effects of Mental Illness There are a wide range of mental illnesses, which can affect people in different ways: Physically Psychologically Socially This presentation considers what constitutes mental illness in relation to consent and the law. A brief overview of common mental health problems, Care in the community and the NSF for Mental Health will then be considered (DoH, 1999). Common Preconceptions of Mental Illness within Society Mental illness is a common feature of everyday life for many people. Mental ill health can affect one in six people of working age. It is estimated nearly half of all women and a quarter of all men will experience depression before they reach seventy years of age. Despite being a major part of daily life for so many, mental . | Chapter 13 Preconceptions and the Reality of Mental Illness Introduction In all practice settings nurses will encounter patients with mental health problems. This presentation considers societies’ misconceptions and encourages the student to question and examine their own views, feelings and attitudes towards mental illness. Acquiring an awareness of the different ways that mental illness can manifest itself is essential if nurses are to work effectively and provide the most appropriate treatment for an individual. Developing empathic and non-judgemental attitudes are a central part of nursing practice, consistent with the role of advocate, stated within the professional nursing Code of Conduct (NMC, 2004). Background At any one time a significant number of the adult population experience mental illness and the majority live within the community. Despite being so widespread mental illness is still frequently misunderstood and often the subject of stigma. Government policy has been .
