Abstract

Across the globe, mental healthcare is increasingly embracing a resource-oriented perspective that recognises the diverse strengths and capacities that support mental wellbeing. Rather than focusing solely on illness, symptoms, or deficits, this approach seeks to identify and mobilise resources—within individuals, families, peer networks, communities, and wider society—that can help to reduce distress and promote wellbeing. This talk will bring together insights from global examples of resource-oriented mental health initiatives, exploring how different resources can be activated to improve mental health outcomes. A particular focus will be given to the ways in which communities can help to nurture and sustain these resources, creating networks of care that complement and extend formal mental health services. By drawing together evidence from across contexts, the talk will highlight the potential of resource-oriented frameworks to reshape how we understand and respond to mental distress, especially in lower-resourced settings where access to traditional services is limited. The presentation will conclude by outlining a new programme of research within the Essex region that aims to build research capacity and develop innovative, resource-based approaches to improving mental health among marginalised young people. This initiative seeks to deepen understanding of how existing strengths and supports can be leveraged to foster wellbeing, resilience, and social inclusion.