Terry  Couchman
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Hi, I am currently working on presenting a Critical Perspective on Mental Health and Mental Illness. This is part of a series of Critical Perspectives I am presenting, to stimulate 'healthy' debate in Health & Social Care.

In order to test the strength and clarity of the arguments, I invite you to respond to this initial analysis (and anything else you wish). You can respond by eMail to: terry@visitweb.org, or visit our Forum Pages and Respond to, or Start a Debate.

We seek to collectively take ownership of concepts like: Mental Health, Psychosis, Delusion, Bipolar, Paranoia, Depression, Mania, Anxiety, Madness, Victim & Disabled, and enforce a holistic, more constructive perspective, on these. An otherwise, relatively competent person is at the centre of these 'conditions'.

We seek to take the fear & control out of these, and other terms like; Dementia & Schizophrenia. The basic character of these 'conditions' has been around, and variously understood, for thousands of years. Hiding people away, over the previous century, has impoverished the understanding of our communities. Ignorance generates Intolerance.

There have been cultures and times in history when more constructive attitudes have been demonstrated and, times when even more destructive attitudes have prevailed in respect of them. Somewhere in the middle there is condescension, fearful acceptance, boastful intolerance, ignorant overreaction, prejudiced representation, distorted expectations and misplaced political correctness.

To understand how underlying 'creative, intelligent nature' becomes distorted in these various ways, we have to consider our own role and expectations in respect of others. These 'others' have legitimate alternative, equally valid perspectives & beneficial contributions to make. Mostly we shun, ridicule & misrepresent them, so that only a few get to express their special genius.

We have to engage on equal terms with others, actively seeking to understand, rather than just reacting in the limited, lazy ways we have been 'programmed' to do. That is what we often do! It is important to recognise that people (experiencing these 'altered' states) generally responded to their cultures in accordance with the prevailing attitudes and behaviour of that time and culture. If they are thwarted, they will respond in kind. We generate the problems.

Many of the wide range of social problems we experience are 'generated' by our cultures in this way. This was the case with race, gender, class and other social differentiations. This is how cultures and societies became 'sick' and have collapsed in the past. There is no way to go back now, except by way of collective self destruction. Human rights & responsibilities take priority.

Sometimes what you see is what you get, sometimes you get what it is you see. Open your eyes wider and put yourself in other's shoes and see yourself from their position. You, or someone close, will be there one day, if you live long enough. Hiding away the problem, or covering it up in a blanket of medication, impoverished the individual and the culture.

If, on the other hand, you do think that Health and Social Services are doing a jolly good job generally and that we are just moaning: Face the fear and ignorance and give us all a break. The fact is that millions of pounds of resources and hours of time are being wasted upon 'pet' paperwork projects and the re-packaging and justifying of lazy, historically defunct practices.

'Jobs Worths' and 'Its Not Our Problem' types have justified their lazy, prejudiced positions for generations. They will always be there and are the worst to cope with a personal and family crisis when it happens. Do them a favour, prepare them for their future - point out their ignorance and bring them into reality. It does happen to everyone and money is not the answer, but well used, it can help.

Don't worry - its here just for fun

RADICAL PERSPECTIVES:

Hi, Radicals, everywhere. Keep up the good work. We are slowly getting there but it is a never ending battle. Watch out for tomorrows radicals, they are on our shirt tails. I am glad to say we have taken the banner back from the likes of Maggie and Ronald. We no longer have to be 'reactionary' to their 'quasi-radicalism'.

We only occasionally have the chance to meet up but our objectives remain mysteriously the same: Is it your desire to empower yourselves and other service users? To adapt professionally to changing needs and demands?

In doing this, do you seek to do so without loosing the essential qualities that gain the respect of those we assist? Are you willing to take calculated risks, in the interests of others, sharing this with others & acknowledging when you get it wrong?;

Then you are radical enough. Please email us with what other qualities you think are important.

Radical Action:
     It is not our intention to 'rubbish' all that has gone before. Each new, historical perspective & human, social, developmental stages, in the evolution of knowledge and scientific & social theory, has is valid contribution for its time and place.
    Further more, the established theories and knowledge base forms the stepping stones to newer experiences, new questions, new answers and newer realities. They are the fragmentary 'concrete' touches with reality, bridging the stream of life (and consciousness).
    As historical perspectives on how knowledge has developed, they will always have validity. As current frameworks for understanding and acting in the social world, they need constant, intelligent challenge, reviewing and; adaptation  to individual needs, experiences & increasing social expectations.

My / Our Determination:
    We reserve the right to challenge, critically analyse, publicise, undermine & embarrass any intentional, or accidental, use of established, or novel, knowledge & theory, which in any way is adopted as dogmatic frameworks, to:

	impose a 'set' range of ideas
	allow imposed ideas & feelings
	limit thinking & legitimate action,
	limit natural & legitimate choices
	restrict opportunity & equality
	justify assault, or intimidation
	disempower, humiliate & abuse:

by lies, by distortions of facts, by the pretence that theory & opinions as facts, by 'mind games', or by Physical, Psychological, Intellectual, Emotional, Spiritual, or Social intimidation of any kind.

My / Our Protocol:
    I/We affirm that these above precepts apply, in all instances, except where there is a direct, immediate, or evidentially imminent threat to the physical, psychological, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of self and significant others.
    Any rule, law or convention that contradicts the 'Conventions on Human Rights', &/or the principles set out above, (without legitimate cause, and which does not, at the same time, protect all other majority and minority interests and rights) are legitimate targets for challenge, of any constrained kind, without anger, in ways that are appropriate to and in keeping with the nature, immediacy and intensity of the threat or actual action.
    Where the threat is substantial & evidenced, directly affecting the physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing of any individual; physical and virtual interventions are justified to the maximum level necessary to stop the threat, get the threat withdrawn and have and alternative, legitimate intervention installed.

The Future is not Orange, Coke, or Benetton. It is the colour we choose to paint it. Get out your paintbrushes. We are going to choose the colours that are appropriate to the need. Preferably Green, perhaps a little Blue and lots 0f Yellow, but Red, if absolutely necessary.

Some Useful Definitions:

Radical:
    Why do we describe ourselves as Radical? This stems from a very clear definition of the term, as used in science. Free radicals are 'open' [shell], highly reactive and keen to bond with other radicals & reactive entities, while retaining their own special character.
    Thus, this concept of Radical is associated with the potential to be open to change: responsive and reactive to knowledge, experience, ideas and other perspectives. While being thus, they also remain true to their own character and expanding knowledge & experience.
    ‘Change is in all things sweet.’  Aristotle
(but never change for change sake.
Terry C.)

Positive Change:
    In this way Radicals fit into the existing dynamic system and promote improvement changes (as knowledge develops) and ensure the established system (of the time) remains fresh and energetic; avoiding stagnation and decay.
    Anyone that effects positive change, over the blind maintenance of the status quo (or self interest), can consider themselves to be Radical. If this describes you in any way, please join us and support the cause of alternative, person and community centred, perspectives and practices.
    ‘We must change in order to survive.’ Pearl Bailey

Mal-adaptation:
    This mal-adaptation of some individuals to their families, culture and communities, extends to most serious 'mental illnesses' and much criminality. This includes schizophrenia, bipolar conditions, clinical depression, & most addictions; All of which can be 'pragmatically' identifiable as negative consequence of the mal-adaptive expression of our more creative human propensities.
    Social Dynamics, Rule 1 is; to every action there is an equal & opposite reaction (external &/or internal). Rule 2 is: In circumstances, where there are restrictions on the positive, or constructive expression of inherent abilities (of any kind); distorted, distressing & destructive expression will ensue; in some identifiable form.
    This will be evident in the internal psychodynamics, expressed thinking, gross behaviour and the general social dynamics of individuals and groups. The more immediate, consequential 'reactions' can be directed inward or outward, but the ultimate consequence is a negative social outcome. a destructive outcome or loss of social benefit.
     See Genetics Unplugged

Adaptation:
    More of this is explained else where. Our role here is to help you appreciate the potential, skills and knowledge you possess and get our cultures & communities to appreciate the positive potentials more fully, allowing you to realise a 'healthy' adaptation of your propensities & abilities, within your cultural and community milieu.
    It is our broad argument that human adaptation extends beyond mere biological determinism. The adaptation is two way and human beings are adapted to be adaptive. We have the extraordinary ability to adapt our environment and our bodies, to our prevailing personal / social dispositions & inclinations. We can even 'actively' change our body chemistry, through our behaviour and thinking, or through medical interventions.
    Many animals can do this in some measure but we are so close to this capability that we are largely blind to it. Our abilities are principally expresses as anecdotes and 'alternative' explanations, rather than serious scientific explanations.
     See Genetics Unplugged
    ‘Those who have changed the universe have never done it by changing officials, but always by inspiring the people.’ — Napoleon Boneparte

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