Landscape of Advanced Practice Mental Health Nursing in Europe

Abstract

Europe is a large geographical area with more than 50 countries, each having their unique history and background, which impacts and influences the development of the healthcare sector and educational provision. In this chapter some of the background of advanced level mental health nursing is described together with observations on the reform of mental health services. The diversity of Europe provides richness and possibility to share and learn from each other, while the mutual concern is the amount of mental health challenges negatively affecting many individuals, families, and communities. From the viewpoint of education, the diversity of postgraduate and Master’s level education are presented with examples from some countries. The change to people-centered and human rights-based approach is certainly needed in mental health care, and advanced practice mental health nurses, together with other professionals and citizens, have a key role to play in making this change a reality.