Mental health in Birmingham
Press Release: Reach the people charity
Is drug-based recovery the answer or the problem?
A charity which supports vulnerable people is hosting a seminar in Birmingham to explore why there has been an increase in the number of people suffering from mental illness over recent decades.
Trident Reach the People Charity is hosting the seminar on Thursday 24th November and it will be led by acclaimed journalist Robert Whitaker who will speak about the issues surrounding psychiatric medication which are explored in his book ‘Anatomy of an Epidemic’.
The seminar, called An Uncomfortable Truth, will take place at Witton Community Centre in Deykin Avenue between 1.30pm and 4.30pm and will include refreshments and networking opportunities. Places cost £30 but availability is limited so they must be booked in advance.
In the UK, the number of people on government disability benefits due to a mental illness has tripled during the last 20 years, rising from 1.25 million to more than 4 million.
An Uncomfortable Truth, which is supported by Crazydiamond Emotional Wellbeing, will look at issues surrounding the increase and explore the factors that could be fuelling it.
Trident Reach the People Charity supports vulnerable people across the Midlands and the surrounding areas and helps them to lead the most independent lives possible.
Its work includes specialist services for a range of vulnerable people including older people, young people, those affected by Domestic Abuse, the homeless and people with learning difficulties. It offers a health and wellbeing service to customers to offer support and guidance.
Wim Kuit, Head of Health, Wellbeing and Confidence at Reach, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this seminar which will explore the emerging questions and challenges around drug-based care in mental health recovery. It is widely known that the number of mental illness diagnoses is increasing but, in today’s Big Society, we need to think critically about the approaches we are using to enhance people’s health and wellbeing.”
To book a place at the seminar, call Wim Kuit on 0121 633 2194 or email [email protected]
