prevention
Disease prevention and health promotion are important elements of public health. Tobacco control, motor vehicle safety, nutrition, and immunizations are widespread public health measures employing science, policy, and interventions. Prevention of mental illnesses and promotion of mental health is an idea that has been considered for quite some time. Although prevention and promotion often are seen to be within the domain of public health and population-based principles, treatment, can address: (1) prevention of co-morbidities, including the co-occurrence of mental disorders and substance abuse, or mental disorders and physical illnesses (some of which may be induced by psychotropic medications, such as the metabolic syndrome), (2) prevention and promotion activities targeting family members of patients with mental illnesses, (3) the prevention of suicide, and (4) focus on reducing the severity of symptoms. Furthermore, a "prevention-minded treatment approach" can have a direct effect on the lives of patients by inquiring about cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, poor dietary habits, substance misuse, and other adverse health behaviors in order to prevent chronic diseases.
Further information regarding prevention relative to mental illness can be found:
Fundamentals of Prevention and Positive Culture Change
Prevention Practice in Mental Health
Evidence-Based Prevention Practice in Mental Health: What Is It and How Do We Get There?
2007 Spring Training Institute Prevention Presentation
