With the publication of The Global Burden of Disease in 1996, the provision and importance of mental health care services, research, treatments and prevention were made clear. Depression threatens to become the second leading cause of disease burden in terms of disability worldwide by 2020. Estimates of the prevalence of mental health disorders are disproportionately high for populations in Eastern Europe. This study examines the barriers to mental health care services found in Romania. In order to discern these barriers from actual users of mental health care services, a questionnaire was administered to 93 chronic and clinical care hospital patients and 67 clients of a community-based psychosocial service provider in five cities located in the different regions of Romania. The questionnaire data include quantitative information regarding seven "quality of life" domains and the level of satisfaction for mental health services. Several indicators were obtained for both patients and clients, which include a severe lack of financial resources and occupational skills. These indicators reiterate the barriers that exist within Romanian society and culture, economic and political systems, psychiatric and psychological methods and training, and the mental health care infrastructure and its facilities. Qualitative data collected through one-on-one interviews with hospital staff, medical professionals, psychosocial service provider employees and mental health advocates was also utilized to highlight these barriers. Recommendations are offered in context with the international public health sector's burgeoning emphasis on mental health care and prevention services.
Learning Objectives: "At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Discuss groups of barriers in obtaining mental health care services in Romania" 2. Describe indicators of both hospital patients and out-patient clients of mental health services based on a quality of life measurement tool"
Keywords: Mental Health, Community-Based Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.