The Victorian Mental Health Promotion Foundation has put together a mental health promotion framework
whereby in consultation with over one hundred organizations from a variety of sectors have identified three
factors that significantly influence mental health. These include: social connectedness, valuing diversity and
economic participation.
Mental Health Promotion Framework
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The population groups targeted here, are the at risk groups in society today and the settings identified for access
and equity; each department is responsible for administering the above health promotion methodologies.
In promoting mental health there are immediate outcomes at three different levels; 1. Increased mental health
literacy to the individual. 2. Accessible and appropriate services, safe environments and enhanced capacity to
the community. 3. Health policies, programs & partnerships to the organization (1).
There are positive outcomes in that it reduces stress, anxiety and depression for the individual and the long-term
benefits include increased physical health, productivity, improved quality of life, increased life expectancy and
decreased mental illness. Overall the payoffs benefit the individual immediately, the broader community and
also future generations.
Researchers abroad also share similar views in the principles of mental health promotion in that it recognizes
the role of others in providing help to people with chronic mental illness. This includes non-mental health
service agencies, consumers and carers. Using assertive outreach techniques it increases general public
awareness and enables the organization, communities and local government to engage in forward planning to
respond to future treatment and service needs (2).
Complimenting the promotion of mental health is advertising and marketing campaigns to promote programs
and events such as “mental health week”, “Daffodil day for schizophrenia”, “Together we do better” campaign peer support programs in schools etc. In the form of articles, brochures, advertisements, radio/television, post cards bus shelters etc. This advertising promotes people to think and talk about issues thus, eliminating ‘fear of the unknown’ making the general public more comfortable and accepting of mental illness and those who suffer
from it.
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Therese K Poland Graduate Certificate Adolescent Mental Health Mental Health Promotion Page
