This document discusses evidence-based practices for mental health in Finland. It outlines current care guidelines for several mental health conditions and emphasizes prevention, treatment, and promotion of mental health. Common evidence-based approaches are presented, such as using short-term psychotherapy and lifestyle changes before medication for conditions like depression and sleep problems. The document also notes seven common pitfalls in general practice related to identifying and managing mental health issues.

1. Evidence based practices and
mental health
Kristian Wahlbeck
The Finnish Association for
Mental Health
Finnish National Institute for
Health and Welfare (THL)

2. Evidence based public mental health
Consentious use of critically appraised
methods to promote mental health, prevent
mental health problems and provide
services.
Current Care guidelines for
-sleep problems
-depression
-bipolar disorder
-schizophrenia
-post-traumatic stress
-eating disorders
-ADHD
-sexually abused children

3. Mental health systems
1.4.2016
Evidence-based care for mental
health
Psychiatric
services
Treatment
Prevention of
mental disorders
Mental health
promotion

4. Mental health systems
Primary
health
care
1.4.2016
Evidence-based care for mental
health
Psychiatric
services
Treatment
Prevention of
mental disorders
Mental health
promotion

5. Common rue of thumb: Medicines are
seldom the first choice
• sleep problems > sleep habits
• depression > short-term psychotherapy
• anxiety > short-term psychotherapy
1.4.2016
Evidence-based care for mental
health

6. 1.4.2016
Evidence-based care for mental
health
Seven common pitfalls in general practice
1. Depression is not identified
2. Alcohol problems are
ignored
3. Failure to diagnose
physical disorders in
patients with severe
mental disorder
-
4. Failure to check for suicidality
5. Overprescription of
benzodiazepines
6. Problems in
continuity
of care
7. Always ask
about the children!

7. Failure of health services: Life
expectancy for people with severe
mental illness in the Nordic countries
7
Wahlbeck et al, BJP 2011
04/04/2016 Mental health for all

8. 1.4.2016
Evidence-based care for mental
health
Seven common pitfalls in general practice
1. Depression is not identified
2. Alcohol problems are
ignored
3. Failure to diagnose
physical disorders in
patients with severe
mental disorder
-
4. Failure to check for suicidality
5. Overprescription of
benzodiazepines
6. Problems in
continuity
of care
7. Always ask
about the children!

9. Intergenerational
transmission of
mental health
problems can
be stopped
Risk of mental disorders in the offspring
of parents with mental disorders is reduced
by 40% by preventive interventions
Siegenthaler et al. JAACAP 2012

10. Mental health is shaped early in life
Where and how we are born, grow, live, work and age
determines our mental health