Chronically Ill in an Emergency: Why Mental Health Matters

University of Copenhagen via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/mental-health-emergencies

Introduction

### Course Review and Recommendation: "Chronically Ill in an Emergency: Why Mental Health Matters" In an increasingly interconnected world where humanitarian crises are common, understanding the complexities of health services has never been more pivotal. Coursera’s course, "Chronically Ill in an Emergency: Why Mental Health Matters," tackles a critical issue that remains largely under-discussed: the integrated approach to mental health and chronic diseases in humanitarian settings. This course, particularly relevant for healthcare professionals, policy-makers, and humanitarian workers, is a valuable resource for fostering better healthcare frameworks and improving patient outcomes. #### Course Overview The course shines a light on how mental ill-health is intricately linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and diabetes—particularly in humanitarian contexts. By examining the integration of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) with NCD prevention and care, the course proposes that a more holistic approach can yield significant benefits in both effectiveness and resource management. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Overview of MHPSS and NCD Prevention and Care in Humanitarian Response** The first module lays the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding the relationship between mental health and NCDs in often challenging humanitarian environments. There’s an insightful discussion on the World Health Organization’s definition of health and the significant global burden of mental ill-health. The transition from the traditional 4x4 framework to the more inclusive 5x5 approach is a key focus, emphasizing the importance of mental health alongside other risk factors. 2. **What is Being Done in Integrating MHPSS and NCD Prevention and Care** This module takes a closer look at current practices and policies, exploring various methods of integrating MHPSS into primary healthcare. The inclusion of case studies, particularly one from Kenya, enriches this section, providing concrete examples of successful integration strategies. The discussion on community-based programs and policy measures reinforces the course’s practical relevance. 3. **Lessons Learned from Integrating MHPSS and NCD Prevention and Care** The final module addresses the diverse challenges experienced in the field, including demographic variations, ethical dilemmas, and the ongoing impact of COVID-19. This reflective piece not only highlights obstacles but also emphasizes potential opportunities and lessons learned through past efforts. The course encourages participants to think critically and adaptively, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate complex scenarios in humanitarian responses. #### Course Format and Attending Options The format of the course is flexible, allowing participants to engage with the content at their own pace. It includes a mix of video lectures, reading materials, and discussions, which cater to different learning styles. This structure is particularly beneficial for working professionals who may need to balance their study with other responsibilities. #### Who Should Take This Course? This course is ideally suited for: - **Healthcare professionals** working in humanitarian settings or interested in global health. - **Mental health practitioners** who want to broaden their understanding of comorbidity in crisis situations. - **Public health policy-makers** focused on implementing effective health strategies in emergency contexts. - **Students and researchers** in fields related to health care, public health, or social work. #### Conclusion and Recommendation "Chronically Ill in an Emergency: Why Mental Health Matters" is an enlightening course that successfully bridges the often-separate domains of mental health and chronic disease management in humanitarian settings. It is particularly commendable for its actionable insights and practical examples, making it not just a theoretical discussion but a catalyst for real-world change. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to anyone committed to enhancing healthcare practices in emergencies. The knowledge and skills gained will not only enrich professional expertise but also contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of vulnerable populations around the world. By integrating MHPSS with NCD prevention and care, we can create a more compassionate and effective response to health crises in humanitarian settings.

Syllabus

Overview of MHPSS and NCD Prevention and Care in Humanitarian Response

This module will provide you with an overview of MHPSS and NCD prevention and care in humanitarian response. We will start by discussing the World Health Organization (WHO) definition of health and the burden and risk factors associated with mental ill-health and other NCDs globally and in humanitarian settings. Then we will discuss the shift from the 4x4 approach (four major NCDs plus four modifiable risk factors) to the 5x5 approach (including mental ill-health and environmental risk factors). Consequently, we will explore factors that worsen mental ill-health in humanitarian responses as well as the role of psychosocial support in improving mental health and well-being. Finally, we will discuss the nature and role of agency in recovery from mental ill-health and other NCDs.

What is Being Done in Integrating MHPSS and NCD Prevention and Care

In this module, we will focus on exploring what is being done and at what level to address comorbidity of mental ill-health and other NCDs in in primary health care in humanitarian settings. We will also seek the answer to what is the role of policy measures and community-based programmes to promote mental and physical well-being as well as ensuring continued access to care. Finally, yet importantly, we will discuss various approaches for integrating MHPSS and NCD prevention and care in humanitarian response, including a case from Kenya.

Lessons Learned from Integrating MHPSS and NCD Prevention and Care

Diverse challenges posed by humanitarian response include varied demographics of the populations affected, the range of mental ill-health and other NCDs, and ethical dilemmas regarding prioritization of MHPSS and NCD prevention and care. In this module, we will discuss these challenges, as well as the opportunities and lessons learned for delivering MHPSS and NCD prevention and care in humanitarian response. We will also look at the impact of COVID-19 to keep MHPSS and NCD prevention and care.