Project Description
Sexual health is an important part of physical and mental health and is a key component of our identity as human beings. Essential elements of good sexual health are positive and loving relationships and sexual fulfilment, with access to information and services which aim to minimise the risks of poor sexual health and reduce unintended pregnancy, illness or disease.
As a group of individuals within the general population, the risks to the sexual health of those with mental health problems in relation to their overall health and well-being are often heightened, with the effects of long-term medications often ‘interfering’ with overall sexuality and sexual function, and a increased inability to make informed and safe decisions about sex – particularly during times when they are unwell.
Our report highlighted the sexual experiences of mental health service users, wherein over 75% of those taking part in the evaluation indicated that they had engaged in unprotected sex, often in relation to their illness; side-effects of the medication; and a desire to be ‘wanted’. This, along with other findings, has provoked major concern for the level of vulnerability of this group of the population in relation to risks – not only to their sexual health, but their whole health, safety and well-being.
Indications of the report are that service users overwhelmingly support the delivery of sexual health assessments as part of their regular mental health care, providing continuity and support from familiar staff -particularly when discussing potentially sensitive and intimate details of their lives.
In considering this, we therefore need to foster a culture of positive sexual health by making sure that everyone gets the information they need – without stigma, fear or embarrassment, especially at times when their health is compromised – so that they can be supported in making informed decisions to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STIs, including HIV.
As our research shows, there is a case for consideration of sexual health services (within the context of one’s overall mental health and well-being) as part of routine mental health team and in-patient services, including programmes and assessments to promote sexual awareness in addition to offering prevention and treatment services for sexual health problems.
JMB Health Consultancy look forward to supporting Public Health and Mental Health organisations in the implementation of next steps and recommendations.
Please contact us for more information.
