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MIGRATION

Some seas – the Adriatic, Mediterranean and North (English Channel) – have taken on a new identity, in that they are now used as routes across which people seek to escape from persecution, find asylum or improve their economic condition. The adopted means of travel is often dangerous – in overcrowded ( small or large ) boats – whose condition often places them at risk of foundering or sinking. The scale upon which this human movement is growing – evidences that the problems to be addressed are now not just international but global in nature. 

CITIES & MENTAL HEALTH

In historically recent times people have increasingly migrated from rural areas to cities. They have done so because large gatherings of people in one place normally provides better economic and social opportunities for all – this, in turn, can offer an improved quality of living. Many who move from rural to urban settings often leave behind them social networks or family – this being what provided a ‘sense of place’. Replacing this – in a city – can be difficult. Friendships can take time to establish – may be transitory – people move around – contacts are lost – and a ‘sense of place’ can become a shifting reality – uncertain and sometimes difficult to focus upon.

However – although it is certain that city living can contribute to positive ‘well being’ – it can, for some, have a negative impact. It is now generally accepted that cities are associated with higher rates of mental health problems than those evident in rural areas.

Cities provide stimuli – created by the movement of people, the ‘hustle & bustle’ , noise & interaction – for most it is an energising experience – for others it can bring ‘overload’ and a gradual inability to ‘cope’.