Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Mental Health Care

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Background

Mental health problems are one of the most common causes of disabilities worldwide. They are estimated to be one of the top ten causes of mortality/morbidity within this decade. Promotion of mental health and provision of timely interventions for people with mental health problems and their families are important areas to be developed locally, regionally, and globally.

Members of the Mental Health Care research theme are committed to building the capacity and developing a strong research profile in the field of mental health care. Our team has a focused research strategy, which has been established around two research areas that are closely linked to local, regional, and international mental health needs, services, and education.

Mission

Producing innovative and world-leading research in mental health care for local, regional, and international communities.

Goals

• To identify most current mental health needs in both clinical and community settings
• To establish evidence-based interventions for people with severe mental illnesses (SMI)
• To promote mental health and well-being of people in various developmental life stages across different care settings

The main research topics

Interventions for people with Severe Mental Illnesses (SMI)

People with SMI are one of the most marginalized, misunderstood, and disadvantaged groups in today's society. There is a current need for evidence-based, patient-centered and usable interventions to be used in communities and treatment facilities for persons with SMI. Our research in this area produces scientific evidence and essential skills to develop, test and establish physical and psychosocial interventions for these people with SMI and their families to improve self-management and patient and illness outcomes. Our research focuses on, for example, the effectiveness of self-help interventions, eHealth, improvement of physical well-being, family-inclusive psychoeducational and supportive interventions, and psychological therapies for individuals with psychotic disorders. Throughout all our work, the needs and experiences of users are highly respected and valued to ensure person-centered approaches.

Challenging relationships, social adversity, and mental health

Poor relational qualities and social adversities have a direct and lasting impact on mental health. These problems are pervasive and may occur in any setting, such as homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. Our research in this area aims to understand the causes, risk factors, and mental health squeal associated with challenging relationships and social adversities. Early prevention and mental health promotion for individuals and groups in vulnerable and sensitive environments are also key components of our work. Some of our current research focuses on violence or aggressive behaviors in care settings and mental health promotion for underserved populations. We actively work to motivate different professionals and engage patients and their families in our research and educational activities.

Implementation

By implementing high quality research, interventions, and health promotion programmes, we aim to:

• Enhance the individual, familial, and social understanding of mental health;
• Inform mental healthcare services and policies;
• Promote the social inclusion of people with mental health problems; and
• Provide consultancy for mental health promotion, interventions, and service provision.