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Who are we listening to?

Article Abstract:

Mental health service user groups have been responsible for many of the developments in mental health care which have taken place in the UK in the 1990s. Input from these groups is vital, but policy makers should be aware that the groups are not fully representative, and that their contributions ignore biological research. Criticism of compulsory treatment and poor services is important, but policy makers should also pay attention to people who are happy to receive the help of medication, and to biological research which might improve the treatment of mental illness.

Evaluation, Mental health policy

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In tune with clients

Article Abstract:

A student mental health nurse discusses how he used music to interact with a patient with Alzheimer's disease. The patient seemed to communicate better through singing than by speaking. She remembers lyrics and her sounds were clearer. She enjoyed the interaction and was very keen to sing with the nurse. He believes that health care staff and patients can gain a lot of benefit from singing, making rhythms and playing instruments.

Usage, Personal narratives, Music therapy, Psychiatric personnel, Mental health personnel

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