Working in mental health is not like fixing broken legs

Working in mental health is not like fixing broken legs


Mental and physical health should be seen as equal, but service planners must recognise that they need different models of funding and delivery


It is an often quoted metaphor: mental health problems should be seen like a broken leg (ie not shameful, not the fault of the suffer who is in need of well-wishing and support). While this analogy can help challenge stigma (and that definitely needs to happen) and address the need for mental and physical health to be seen as equal, it can be damaging when thinking about structuring services to meet the needs of people experiencing mental distress.

You have a broken leg? You get to hospital. People may offer to take you. You accept these kind offers. You comply with treatment. You attend follow-up appointments which come by letter, which you a) open, b) understand, c) make a note of and, importantly, d) agree with the need for. Guardian

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