What does community psychology emphasize in relation to health care?

Community psychology places a strong emphasis on prevention over treatment when it comes to health care. This approach focuses on addressing the social and environmental factors that contribute to mental health issues, rather than solely concentrating on individuals who seek treatment after problems arise.

The goal is to promote well-being and prevent mental health problems from developing in the first place, often through community-based interventions. This may involve program development, community education, and the creation of supportive environments, emphasizing the importance of collective action and resources to enhance mental health at a community level.

By prioritizing prevention, community psychology aims to reduce the incidence of mental health issues, leading to healthier populations overall. This philosophy contrasts with a more traditional medical model that often centers on acute care and individual treatment after the onset of illness.