There are wide inconsistencies between, and even within, countries in how community-orientated care is defined and interpreted.

Why are most people with mental illnesses in the world untreated? Have we yet discovered effective treatments for mental disorders? Is it inevitable that people with mental health problems must expect to be stigmatised and treated as second class citizens? What examples are there across the world of really good services that meet the needs of people requiring mental health care?

This practical book, bursting with the latest research findings, shows that such treatments are available, can be put into practice, and are able to deliver real help to people with mental disorders worldwide.  As global mental health gains recognition from practitioners and research funders alike, this book, written by a group of experts from across the globe, gives rich examples of what works. It provides an overview of mental health policies, plans and programmes, a summary of relevant research efforts, a critical appraisal of community mental health service components, and a discussion of the key challenges, obstacles and lessons learnt in the various regions of the world, followed by recommendations for the future, based on evidence and experience. There is a now a growing social movement forming a powerful alliance to advocate for global mental health. This book will be a vital tool to argue with data, with passion and with the fruits of international experience for new models of care to deliver better mental health in communities worldwide.

This book represents a very useful resource for all mental health professionals and for all policy makers involved in mental health. It is recommended to trainees in psychiatry and in other mental health professions, who will find in it a treasure of information and ideas not found in the textbooks.