Lived Experience Engagement: A Global Movement For Better Mental Health Support

Lived experience engagement recognizes the unique and valuable perspectives of those who have lived through mental health challenges. By involving individuals with lived experience in systems and decision-making processes, we can ensure that mental health services are tailored to the needs of those who use them. This approach can help to break down stigma and promote a more inclusive and compassionate mental health system.

The Global Mental Health Peer Network is a leader in the lived experience engagement space on a global scale. This network recognizes the importance of involving individuals with lived experience in mental health decision-making processes and service delivery, regardless of their geographic location or cultural background.

The future of the global lived experience engagement movement involves learning from the past and planning for the future. We can bring context to the stories, experiences, history, and knowledge that have led to the current structure and function of mental health systems around the world. We can also dream, design, and develop better systems for the future based on current best practice.

Instead of reinventing the wheel or duplicating efforts and resources designing individual mental health systems, we could share the load. By gathering best practice from around the world, we could create a global framework that is adaptable to different local settings and cultures.

There are six key areas where the Global Mental Health Lived Experience Community can take action to promote lived experience engagement on a global scale:

1. Creating a database of consumer engagement resources from around the world.

2. Developing an overarching framework for lived experience engagement.

3. Advocating for global mental health policies that prioritize lived experience engagement.

4. Establishing an international peer network for individuals with lived experience.

5. Supporting the development of local lived experience networks around the world.

6. Promoting education and training on lived experience engagement for mental health professionals globally.

Lived experience engagement is a critical approach to mental health care that can promote a more inclusive and compassionate mental health system around the world. The Global Mental Health Peer Network is a leader in the lived experience engagement space on a global scale and has the potential to create a global framework for lived experience engagement that is adaptable to different local settings and cultures. By taking action in key areas, the Global Mental Health Lived Experience Community can work towards a future where mental health support is more accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all.