Health Promotion Strategies For Women With Comorbid Health and Mental Health Conditions

Abstract

Abstract In the last decade, there has been increased recognition of the link between mental health conditions and physical disorders—a relationship known as comorbidity. This nexus has had particular implications for women diagnosed with a psychiatric illness and receiving public sector mental health services. This chapter begins by defining and illustrating the terms morbidity and comorbidity, followed by a review of four core health-related concerns that women with psychiatric conditions present to mental health providers. They include psychosocial/personal history, medication-induced weight gain, pregnancy, and substance use. Next, the chapter describes four health promotion strategies (e.g., intentional recovery community, fitness program, health education, and gender-specific treatment groups) and model programs. The remainder of the chapter reviews barriers to the implementation of strategies (e.g., fiscal, clinical, and training) and provides recommendations for organizational shift to a health promotion philosophy. The chapter concludes with a summary of a focus group discussion held by consumers and family members who were asked the following question: “How can the mental health system improve your and your family members ‘ health needs?”