S.TRUEMAN PhD THESIS 2016

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This study adopted this expansive definition as a basis of its concept of remote health. Notably, mental illness and mental health are not mentioned in this definition. 1.6.5 What is mental health and illness? ‘Mental illness’ is a term that describes a diverse range of behavioural and psychological conditions. These conditions can affect an individual’s mental health, functioning and quality of life, or ‘the capacity of individuals and groups to interact with one another and the environment, in ways that promote subjective wellbeing, optimal development and the use of cognitive, affective and relational abilities’ (Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care & AIHW, 1998, p. 5). The World Health Organization (WHO, 2014) described mental health as a state of wellbeing in which people can realise their full potential, cope with everyday stressors, work productively and make a positive contribution to society. 1.6.6 Current profile of the remote nursing workforce The Council of Remote Area Nurses of Australia (CRANA Plus) (2003), the professional body for remote and isolated health practitioners, has described the role of remote nurses as follows: Remote area nurses in Australia provide and coordinate a diverse range of healthcare services for remote, disadvantaged or isolated populations. Their practice is guided by primary healthcare principles and includes emergency services, clinical care, health promotion and public health services. Remote generalist nurses work in a variety of settings including outback and isolated towns, islands, tourism settings, railway, mining, pastoral and Indigenous communities. (p. 107)