'The needs of strangers': understanding social determinants of mental illness

Abstract

This article explores the social determinants of mental illness in order to stimulate debate and advocate for improved services, and greater understanding and acceptance for people with serious mental illness in their community. Systemic and broader social mechanisms that perpetuate stigma and inequity are briefly examined. Research findings from a study of the culture of smoking for psychiatric populations are used to demonstrate the complexity of these mechanisms and to show how they impact on the social determinants of mental illness for people with serious mental illness. From this discussion, broad system and policy options are offered.