Adult Mental Health, Major Conditions and Social Prescribing: A Rapid Review

Abstract

This rapid review explores the use of social prescribing for individuals with mental health needs. Mental health conditions are one of the six areas of focus in the UK government’s major conditions strategy, which aims to increase healthy life expectancy, alleviate pressure on the health system, and recognise the impact of comorbidity. It aims to improve the treatment of patients through the integration of mental health and physical health pathways. Social prescribing shows promise in contributing to positive mental health outcomes and could be a viable option as part of this strategy. Fifty-three articles were included in this rapid review from 4 databases (CINAHL, Cochrane, PubMed and Scopus) which discussed the use of social prescribing in addressing mental health conditions. Social prescribing activities, the roles and responsibilities of practitioners, and the need for further underpinning research are all explored. Overall, this review highlights the potential benefits of social prescribing for individuals with mental health conditions.