Public Participation and Mental Health: the contrasted and unfinished response of mental health users
Objectives: The objective of this article is show the way that mental health users in Quebec responded to the last Mental Health Action Plan Directive (2005-2010): the strength of the links which were labelled as follows: “The MSSS, The Health and Social Service Agencies, as well as the Centers of Health and Service Agencies must be sure to obtain the participation of mental health users (and those close to them), in all mental health and planning organizational services.” (MSSS, 2005: p.16) Method: The results presented in this article are based on the qualitative exploratory study conducted in the 11 regions of Quebec. In total 35 persons participated in the study, 13 service users, 11 persons coming from institutional environments (interveners and administrators) and 11 key players. Results: The PASM’s directive gave rise to a major mobilization of service users who drew up social groupings to engage in the participation activities. As well, it has permitted a generalization and regionalization of participation activities. However, the imprecision regarding the organization of the participants relative to the means required to implement the long-awaited results, has given rise to multiple interpretations, and therefore, to uneven results according to the regions, including the interior of the main region. Conclusions: The participation of service users will remain a principle whose effects will be contingent, as long as the ministerial willingness will not be accompanied by precise targets to reach, a planned process of rendering of accounts and adequate financing.