ABSTRACT
This part conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters. The part highlights the sources of support drawn on by those with lived experience of the mental health system –including the support of peers, unexpectedly supportive allies within the healthcare system, family and friends. It also highlights how the existence of a mental health label or diagnosis adversely impacted on the provision of physical healthcare –contributing to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment for serious physical health conditions. The part describes how much work is needed to achieve this. It also describes the use of coercion outside the context of involuntary detention –including as a 'voluntary' patient and within the realm of the family. An overarching theme is the need to ensure that people are listened to, believed and respected when they describe their experiences of distress.
