In this workshop, we introduce and discuss the implementation of pilots of disruptive change to the mental health care system in the Netherlands, and examine its wider applicability across other countries.Given evidence that... [ view full abstract ]
In this workshop, we introduce and discuss the implementation of pilots of disruptive change to the mental health care system in the Netherlands, and examine its wider applicability across other countries.
Given evidence that the introduction of recovery oriented practice is difficult to bring about within the disability-oriented discourse of existing mental health structures (eg inconclusive results in REFOCUS[1] and CRIMSON[2, 3] trials in the UK), we developed a blueprint for experimental pilots of disruptive change[4], based on the following principles: small scale, choice, high levels of peer-support and delivery, integrated approach, diagnosis as social construct, social economy, education, activating networks, focus on possibilities and resilience.
To date, 5 pilots in areas no larger than 20.000 population are underway, which will be funded by bed closures and reduction of bureaucracy in the participating mental health organisations. Whilst the initiation of the project has generated much enthusiasm, risk of failure is high, given extensive need for ‘cognitive debiasing’ towards a recovery-oriented discourse, passive resistance and administrative and financial complexities. The aim, nevertheless, is to learn from the experience and disseminate the process and the outcomes.
