Values and Principles Underpinning Person-friendly Mental Health Services

Services around the world are increasingly fragmented and specialized, with the result of excluding more people in need. The use of coercive practices has increased, and clinical and social outcomes are not producing the expected results. Services are fundamentally not person-friendly, difficult to access and navigate. This article summarizes the values and principles that should underpin mental health services, as suggested by a group of patients and carers. Continuity of care, use of compulsory admissions, open door, involvement of carers and risk management are explored and discussed, with particular emphasis on the current scientific evidence or each theme. More person-friendly services are not only possible but should be the main drive when planning and designing healthcare systems.