Alexandra Bowers, MPH, MSW, Services Division, Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, 940 Commonwealth Ave West, Boston, MA 02215, 617-353-3549, abowers@bu.edu

The purpose of this presentation is to introduce participants to the sexual health issues facing individuals with serious mental illness. Historically, certain subgroups of people have been denied information on sexual health and/or discouraged from developing a sexual identity, including people with disabilities. Individuals who have spent prolonged periods of time in more restrictive settings in the mental health system have frequently been unable to access information, resources, and supports that would enable them to develop healthy sexual attitudes and relationships. Furthermore, people with serious mental illnesses have often had sexual feelings pathologized as “symptoms”. This has resulted this group of people being at greater risk for many negative health conditions related to sexuality and relationships including: STDs, HIV/AIDS, sexual violence and abuse, unwanted pregnancy, and unsatisfying personal relationships. The presenter will discuss data on the sexual health issues affecting individuals with serious mental illness and the barriers that such factors as societal norms and the attitudes of mental health professionals have posed to the abilities of this group to develop self-efficacy with respect to sexuality. The presenter will make the case for the helping individuals with serious mental illness develop a healthy perspective on sexuality and intimacy as an important part of their wellness and recovery process. The presenter will give examples from a Sexuality and Intimacy class taught at the Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation to highlight ways in which information and skills can be taught in a safe, respectful, and healthy environment.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will

• Understand the factors contributing to the lack of access to sexual health information and resources experienced by people with mental illness.
• Be aware of the increased risk of adverse health conditions for people with serious mental illness stemming from a lack of access to sexuality informaton.
• Realize the importance of including sexuality education as a component of rehabilitation programs for people with serious mental illness.
• Be able to describe critical components of a sexuality education tailored the needs to people with serious mental illness.

Keywords: Sexuality, Sever Mental Illness

Related Web page: www.bu.edu/cpr

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation services will be discussed in this presentation.
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am employed by The Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation.