Why is this National Indicator important?
Mental health is a priority issue. We want to live in a Scotland where we all understand that there is no health without good mental health. Mental wellbeing can be a key factor in determining physical wellbeing. It can also influence social circumstances such as employment, family relationships and community participation. Addressing mental wellbeing is, therefore, a consideration in a range of government objectives. Mental health issues are often particularly acute with those on the margins of society and need to be tackled to improve progress on social inclusion objectives. Conversely, mental wellbeing is also influenced by a range of social factors, so is a reasonable indicator of broad government performance.
What will influence this National Indicator?
There are a number of factors pertinent to mental wellbeing:
- Employment and income can improve social position and a sense of control over life situations
- Problem-coping and solving skills can improve sense of control and alleviate anxiety
- Physical health can influence ability to undertake life tasks including employment
- Self-respect and esteem can allow a positive outlook on life situations
- The quality of the physical and social environment can influence the sense of control and support networks to individuals
- Access to good quality services can help to build improved strategies for coping and getting on with life
What is the Government's role?
We are working with local authorities, health boards and a range of other public, private and voluntary service delivery organisations to improve the quality of life and social inclusion of those who experience mental health problems. This is achieved by: providing access to facilities/amenities; providing support; reducing discrimination and prejudice; and helping individuals to enter or stay in employment. Action on a broad range of government priorities such as education, infrastructure and the environment can also help to improve quality of life and wider mental wellbeing.
How is Scotland performing?
The mean Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS) score in 2008 was 50.0 and has remained at a similar level in 2009 (49.7) and 2010 (49.9). The score can range between 14 and 70 with a higher score indicating better wellbeing.
The data for this chart is available at the bottom of the page
Source: From 2008 onwards , the Scottish Health Survey. For 2006, the 'Well? What Do You Think?' Survey
Criteria for recent change
This evaluation is based on: any annual change in the mean WEMWBS score within +/- 0.4 of last year's figure suggests that the position is more likely to be maintaining than showing any change. An increase of 0.4 or more suggests the position is improving; whereas a decrease of 0.4 or more suggests the position is worsening. Changes resulting from the improved recording of unknown destinations were also taken into account in this evaluation.
The threshold of 0.4 point chosen is based on an assessment of the data available at this time, and may need to be reviewed as more information becomes available in the future.
Further Information
For information on general methodological approach, please click here.
Scotland Performs Technical Note
Who are our partners?
NHS Scotland
Local Authorities
See Me Scotland
Scottish Recovery Network
Related Strategic Objectives
Healthier
Safer and Stronger
Smarter
Wealthier and Fairer