Individual - local community and mental health: Towards a comprehensive community psychiatric model for prevention of mental problems and promotion of mental health

Abstract

Community psychiatric understanding points to complex-interactive contributions from a variety of community sectors concerning people's mental health. In the light of an ongoing fishery crisis in Lofoten, a mental health promotion project “Liv Laga i Lofoten” was planned. The theoretical basis of the “Liv Laga” model for mental health promotion is the interaction of recent strain situations, support from social networks, and personal resources; within a local community framework. The level of social integration-disintegration of the local community is dealt with both theoretically and in practice. The design of “Liv Laga i Lofoten” was developed through a process bringing the psychiatric out-patient clinic, the municipal health and social services, and local politicians together to secure local ownership and identification with the project. A main feature of the project work is the combination of close engagement, participation in planning and practical work, and the use of a scientific model as a continu...