Mental Health in Social Domain

In the ‘Mental Health in Social Domain’ focus area, we conduct research that focuses on how social work can contribute to preventing and supporting psychosocial distress and mental health problems. This is led by associate professor Monique Engelbertink. In this research interdisciplinary collaboration and narrative research are prioritised.

In the Netherlands, considerable attention is currently being paid to increasing cooperation between primary care professionals and other sectors (social sector, medical-specialist care and long-term care) (Integral Care Agreement, 2022). Cooperation between professionals from different domains leads to improved person-centred care, support and services. In particular, our research focuses on the collaboration between volunteers, (family) experts by experience, social workers, mental health professionals and professionals in the field of public safety, such as police officers.

People give meaning and purpose to their lives through the stories they construct (Bohlmeijer et al., 2007). Narrative research focuses on the stories of clients and their loved ones. This provides the opportunity to hear a person’s wants, needs and aspirations from a coherent and meaningful perspective. Through their life story they can talk about past events; including their opportunities, strengths and those who supported them (Engelbertink, 2023).

Twente Regional Learning Community Mental Health

The Twente Regional Learning Community Mental Health aims to be the key learning and development centre for integrated work benefitting individuals and their families dealing with mental health issues, either by preventing severe mental health problems, or understanding and supporting the person and his relatives at an early stage.