Mine, yours and ours: Sharing and its value in mental health

The concept of “sharing” is replete with positive connotations. It conjures up images of constructive working relationships, of productivity and a sense of shared purpose, and the imparting of personal experiences for common benefit. Sharing has applications in all areas of health, including research, evidence-based practice and patient-centred care. The discipline of mental health, which has a particular emphasis on the lived experience and more greatly involves families and caregivers, has much to benefit from sharing. Of particular importance to the provision and development of mental health care and research is the sharing of information.