RESUMEN
Between 2009 and 2011, states implemented significant budget cuts to community mental health agencies (CMHAs), which are frequently the sole provider of specialized behavioral health services in rural communities. Starting in 2010, federal policy changes created by health care reform and mental health parity are likely to increase the number of individuals who can afford to seek services for a mental illness. CMHAs under financial stress have begun to eliminate services and reduce staff. These trends could result in a growing gap between available behavioral health services and the number of people who can afford to seek treatment for a mental illness.
Asunto(s)
Presupuestos , Servicios Comunitarios de Salud Mental/métodos , Reforma de la Atención de Salud , Necesidades y Demandas de Servicios de Salud , Servicios de Salud Rural/provisión & distribución , Adulto , Niño , Servicios Comunitarios de Salud Mental/economía , Servicios Comunitarios de Salud Mental/provisión & distribución , Ahorro de Costo/tendencias , Humanos , Estados UnidosRESUMEN
Parents who have serious and persistent mental illness are often overlooked in social work and mental health journals. Furthermore, mentally ill parents typically are viewed from a pathology perspective that fails to address their desire to be competent parents. This article reviews the literature on mentally ill parents and addresses conceptual issues in assessment and services. The author critiques methods of assessment and recommends more appropriate and comprehensive assessment protocols. Model programs are discussed with a focus on the development of competent parenting skills combined with social supports for parents who have a serious and persistent mental illness.