Citation

Karban K. Br. J. Soc. Work 2017; 47(3): 885-992.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Oxford University Press)

DOI

10.1093/bjsw/bcw098

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Despite increasing evidence of the impact of health inequalities on mental health (Pickett and Wilkinson, 2015), there is only limited recognition of the potential role for mental health social work in addressing 'upstream' as well as 'downstream' challenges of poverty, disadvantage and oppression affecting many people experiencing mental health difficulties. This paper presents some of the current evidence concerning mental health inequalities and the opportunities for mental health social workers to promote well-being. A theme throughout the paper is the need to avoid the many examples of dichotomous thinking that frequently characterise thinking about mental health and mental health practice. Additionally, the limitations of an individualised recovery discourse are acknowledged. Drawing on Krieger's (2011) eco-social model, the social determinants of mental health are considered and the concept of embodiment is examined for its contribution to a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between inequality and health. Finally, the paper offers a version of mental health social work that 'faces both ways', involving issues at both the individual and the wider societal levels. This includes developing and extending partnerships with service users and carers and with other professional and agencies.