This is a handbook for all those new to mental health work or seeking to develop their skills who want to know more about underpinning policies and best practice. Based broadly on the standards in the national service framework for mental health, the book presents contributions from some of the leading figures in the mental health arena. Topics covered include: models of mental health and illness; preventing mental illness and promoting mental health; mental health in primary care; acute psychiatric and crisis care; managing risk; promoting individual choice; supporting carers; and user involvement in service design and delivery. The book is intended to provide and introduction and platform for further exploration of the dilemmas and issues raised. Students taking the Revised Level 3 Certificate in Community Mental Health Care (for people aged 18 to 65 years) may find this book a useful complement to their studies.