Human Rights and Mental Illness

Book excerpt: Report examines the existing social, legal, medical and institutional frameworks; deals with evidence concerning psychiatric care and treatment; examines the position of vulnerable or particularly disadvantaged groups; addresses the importance of prevention and early intervention services; presents findings and recommendations for change; Chapter 23 examines the position of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; findings include lack of knowledge by health professionals, inadequate and culturally inappropriate services and problems and negative impacts due to geographic isolation, social and economic disadvantage, removal of children and removal from remote communities for treatment; recommendations focus on the need for consultation and an Aboriginal community based and controlled approach to services.