This second edition provides an up-to-date and comprehensive introduction to mental health with detailed case studies to illustrate the complexities of mental health work. It will prove an invaluable resource for students of mental health and related disciplines. -- Dr Ken McLaughlin, Senior Lecturer, Department of Social Care and Social Work, Manchester Metropolitan University
This is a very well structured text that covers a wide range of key and important topics that will inform those who are working in/supporting individuals with a mental health problem. I feel that this would be a very useful resource and base text for both students and practitioners for quick and easy reference. The topics are presented in an easy to understand way and are very good at providing an introduction to policy, legislation and mental health conditions. There is good use of references for readers to follow up. There is really good application of the theory, discussed within chapters, to practice by case scenarios/examples. I would recommend this book as an essential read for those starting a career in mental health or wanting to find out more information in respect of this area. -- Dr Neil James, Senior Lecturer, Unit for Development in Intellectual Disability, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales
This is an engaging book which is well written, concepts and terms are not only clearly explained but the context in which they sit is covered. This helps the reader to gain an understanding of how the key mental health issues such as schizophrenia have evolved and how they are influenced by not only health but politics, culture and the media.
The use of case notes aids the reader to relate the main chapter material to practice, this will be of benefit to students and those who are curious about how to apply the principles outlined in the preceding chapter.
The authors offer a well rounded view of mental health as they acknowledge the medical and social contribution to understanding how problems originate and the potential for recovery.
Overall this is a comprehensive guide to contemporary mental health, covering origins, assessment, intervention and how to promote recovery. This book should prove to be a useful guide for those who are new to the health and social care field, as a reference for the more experienced or those who are curious and want to understand more about mental health.
-- Ian Hamilton, Lecturer in Mental Health, University of York
It is an easy-to-read and jargon-free introduction, revised an updated, reflecting the latest knowledge on mental health conditions, good practice and the law. -- Ministry Today, Sep 2015
