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The role of non-governmental organizations in the mental health area: differences in understanding Cover

The role of non-governmental organizations in the mental health area: differences in understanding

By: Vesna Zupančič and  Majda Pahor  
Open Access
|Jul 2016

Abstract

Introduction

The contribution’s aim is highlighting the differences in understanding non-governmental organizations’ (NGOs) role in the mental health area within the public support network for patients with mental health problems from various viewpoints, in order to achieve progress in supporting patients with mental health problems in local communities.

Methods

Qualitative data gathered as a part of a cross-sectional study of NGOs in the support network for patients with mental health problems in two Slovenian health regions (56 local communities), carried out in 2013 and 2014, were used. Qualitative analysis of interviews, focus groups and answers to an open survey question was performed.

Results

There are differences in understanding NGOs’ role in the support network for patients with mental health problems, which stem from the roles of stakeholders (local community officials, experts, care providers, and patients) within this system and their experience.

Discussion and conclusion

The actual differences need to be addressed and overcome in order to provide integrated community care. The importance of knowing the current state of NGOs in their life cycle and the socio-chronological context of the local community support network is evident.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/sjph-2016-0032 | Journal eISSN: 1854-2476 | Journal ISSN: 0351-0026
Language: English
Page range: 231 - 238
Submitted on: Nov 16, 2015
Accepted on: May 3, 2016
Published on: Jul 28, 2016
Published by: National Institute of Public Health, Slovenia
In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services
Publication frequency: 4 issues per year

© 2016 Vesna Zupančič, Majda Pahor, published by National Institute of Public Health, Slovenia
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 3.0 License.