John Gormley
Ceist:948 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children if he plans to develop a national mental health promotion strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20577/03]
Written Answers. - Mental Health Promotion.
Mental health is as important as physical health to the overall well-being of a person and poor mental health can have a significant impact on both the quality of life of the individual and his or her contribution to society. The health promotion unit of my Department is fully committed to the promotion of positive mental health.
It is a strategic aim of the National Health Promotion Strategy 2000-2005 to promote positive mental health and to contribute to a reduction in the percentage of the population experiencing poor mental health. The unit has developed strong links with each of the health boards and supports the health promotion efforts of mental health organisations such as Mental Health Ireland, Schizophrenia Ireland and GROW. All of these organisations are committed to raising public awareness of mental health issues and educating the population with regard to these issues and are working to eradicate the stigma associated with mental health.
As the Deputy may be aware, an expert group on mental health policy was recently established to prepare a national policy framework for the further modernisation of mental health services. It is envisaged that the group will examine, inter alia, measures to reduce stigma in the area of mental health. The group is expected to consult widely with interested parties and it is expected that the group will complete its work in eighteen months.