ABSTRACT
In Chapter 6 the various elements of positive mental health policy were outlined and connections made between them. Mental health assessment forms another link in this schema and, indeed, needs to be seen in the context of a coherent and comprehensive mental health policy (see Figure 6.1). The criteria for assessment need, for instance, to be written into contracts and service agreements. They influence indicators and targets. However, the concept and practice of mental health assessment has a particular association with mental illness and its assessment. Thus, as with discussion of other developments in the field of mental health promotion (MHP), this chapter wrests mental health assessment from the context of mental illness by, first, acknowledging the mental illness context of mental health assessment. Following this, and an introductory discussion of needs assessment, new directions for the assessment of mental health which draw on and develop notions defined in Part I (in particular Chapters 3 and 5) are proposed as reference points for the many existing measures of mental health. Mental health assessment is considered in terms of individuals, groups and communities.
