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Systematic Narrative
Review
The Well-being of Approved Mental Health
Professionals
Abstract
Context:
The purpose of this systematic narrative literature review was to explore factors
that potentially support or challenge the wellbeing of Approved Mental Health
Professionals (AMHPs). AMHPs are non-medical professionals, predominantly
social workers, who have the authority to assess people for detention under the
Mental Health Act.
Methods employed in the review:
Four databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles that reference the
experiences and impact of the assessment process on AMHPs.
• Social Care Online;
• Scopus;
• Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts; and,
• PsycInfo.
A total of 11 peer reviewed articles were identified. Despite the international
search, all were UK based. Using a narrative approach, key themes were
identified and implications for practice discussed in the context of Northern
Ireland.
Findings:
The findings are discussed under five themes. The first explored tensions between
the biomedical and social model causing ethical and moral conflicts for the AMHP.
Theme 2 outlined the impact of lack of therapeutic, community-based alternatives,
inpatient beds, time pressures and staff shortages. Theme 3 looked at
multidisciplinary working and highlights power differentials between GP's and the
AMHP. Communication and co-ordination with police and ambulance services pose