Fragmentation of society

Society becomes more fragmented as, for example, the prevalence of unemployment and divorce increases. The number of ‘broken families’ increases and family and social support are affected, reducing opportunities to tackle poor mental health. As society moves away from religion and a more collectivist community lifestyle, people become increasingly independent, resulting in isolated lives. Lack of familial support becomes the norm, especially for the older population.

Proposed workforce impact

• Increased demand for mental health services and social support

Sources or references

• Kawachi and Berkman, (2001), Social ties and mental health, Journal of Urban Health, 78,3, 458-467
• Morgan et al., (2007), Social exclusion and mental health, The British Journal of Psychiatry, 191, 477- 483
• Mental Health Foundation, (2010), The lonely society report.

Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.