Rehabilitation in mental health: a context for health professionals

The factors that cause or generate social exclusion are complex and multi-faceted. Research into social xclusion does not include rigorously controlled studies, but embraces qualitative, quantitative and mostly descriptive methods from the best quality material available to provide a narrative review that is both systematic and transparent. As part of their Breaking the Cycle series, a review of literature confi ned to the last decade was commissioned by the Social Exclusion Unit (SEU) via the Offi ce of the Deputy Prime Minister. Nine domains of social exclusion were included in the subsequent report, one of which was health. The health domain was itself sub-categorized into six areas, one of which was mental health. This article reflects further on details submitted to the SEU, relating mental health to healthy living. The focus is on mental health promotion and the relationship between physical exercise and mental health. The article looks at public perception of mental health and its impact, and the evidence for physical activity in improving mental health outcomes. Health professionals may interpret the issues within their own remit for rehabilitation and research. The key point summary aims to provide a platform for further discussion and possible action