The psychological impact of physical illness

• What is severe mental illness?  Here you will find a resource which may help non-mental health professionals to recognise the signs and symptoms of psychosis in their patients.

• Read about the Mental Health Foundation’s policy work on long-term physical health and mental health. 

• Having a mental disorder increases the risk for physical health problems and conversely, many health conditions increase the risk for mental disorder.  Co-morbidity complicates help-seeking, diagnosis, and treatment, and influences prognosis.  Read the 2007 Lancet article here.

• The RCN discusses the eight most important areas for training and education and asks what training do mental health nurses want?

• Read about the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ 3 year campaign, Fair Deal, which works towards equality for people with mental health problems. 

• Find out more about an independent, confidential and friendly self-help group for doctors who have experienced mental distress or mental health problems.

• The physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can be combined with mental health difficulties.  Read about good practice at the Parkinson’s Disease/Mental Health (PDMH) clinic. 

• The NHS Clinical Knowledge Summaries provide clear guidance on managing the psychological complications of physical illness.  This guidance is aimed at non-mental health practitioners.