This book is a challenge to the enduring status and domination of bio-medical approaches in mental health services. Contributors from four continents argue that this domination, along with modernization and multidisciplinary work, will not improve people's lives unless social and psychological perspectives are appreciated and integrated. This implies new forms of relationships and social arrangements. Mental Health at the Crossroads: the Promise of the Psychosocial Approach is a timely analysis of the psychosocial approach as it resonates across the discipline divide, considering the past and future development. It is written from the perspectives of service users and carers, managers, practitioners, educators, researchers and policy makers, illustrated with case studies from Australia, Brazil, Italy, UK and the USA. This book presents an alternative approach to conventional thinking in mental health, providing a fascinating and valuable resource for those seeking new perspectives, grounded in theory with practice examples, in order to influence the current agenda and change practice.

Presenting an alternative approach to conventional thinking in mental health, this book provides a resource for those seeking perspectives, grounded in theory with practice examples, in order to influence the agenda and change practice.

'...an interesting and ambitious collection of readings that challenge predominant thinking in the field of mental health...does much to enhance our understanding of which direction to take at the crossroads of mental health reform.' Professor Wes Shera, University of Toronto, Canada 'This accessible and thought provoking text draws on a wide range of expertise - international, historical, sociological, multi-professional, theoretical and practical, with a strong contribution from both service users and carers - to convincingly challenge the enduring bio-medical doctrine. Individual chapters provide fascinating insights when read alone; case studies and vignettes bring debates alive. Read as a whole the book offers an in-depth analysis of the key dilemmas facing everyone involved in contemporary mental health systems, and provides a credible, practical and theoretical case for taking an informed psychological and social approach to mental health work...recommended reading for all those working in the system, whatever their grade, profession or area of responsibility.' Dr Julie Repper, University of Sheffield, UK 'Contributors to this collection are drawn from a range of backgrounds and from very different social contexts...All of the contributors explore central aspects of the psycho-social corrective to the bio-medical model and the assumption that new legislation necessarily marks progress. The reader will find much to think about in each chapter.' (Taken from the Foreword) David Pilgrim, Liverpool University and Clinical Dean, Teaching Primary Care Trust East Lancashire, UK '...very welcome in giving a good overview of the theoretical and practical background of the so called psychosocial model.' International Journal of Integrated Care 'Practitioners will benefit from acquainting themselves with this book; policymakers will find it essential.' Care Management Journals 'Advocates and practitioners of the psychosocial will appreciat