Policy Press

The Short Guide to Mental Health

By Deirdre Heenan and Jennifer Betts

Published

Jan 14, 2025

Page count

232 pages

Browse the series

Short Guides

ISBN

978-1447352440

Dimensions

198 x 129 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Jan 14, 2025

Page count

232 pages

Browse the series

Short Guides

ISBN

978-1447352495

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Jan 14, 2025

Page count

232 pages

Browse the series

Short Guides

ISBN

978-1447352495

Imprint

Policy Press
The Short Guide to Mental Health

In this clear and concise primer, Deirdre Heenan and Jennifer Betts lay out key concepts and debates in the field of mental health.

With overviews of recent developments and stakeholder perspectives, the book introduces contemporary themes in policy and practice. It explores the prevalence, cost and social determinants of mental illness, the changing attitudes and stigma around them, and the roles of the state, voluntary and community sectors in designing and delivering services. Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, the guide includes:

•text boxes and figures to illustrate key points;

•end of chapter summaries;

•international case studies;

•further reading guides.

For students, practitioners, policy makers and newcomers alike, this is an accessible and comprehensive guide to an increasingly prioritised and debated topic.

“A useful introduction to contemporary themes in mental health covering a range of perspectives.” Matt Proom, University of the West of England

Deirdre Heenan is a member of the Institute for Research in Social Sciences at the University of Ulster and the former Dean of Academic Development.

Jennifer Betts is Research Associate at Ulster University currently working with IMPACT (Improving Adult Care Together) and a published author on policy and practice in mental health.

1. Introduction

2. Stigma

3. Mental Health Policy Development in the UK

4. The Provider Challenge and the Service User Movement

5. The Social Determinants of Mental Health

6. The Prevalence and Cost of Mental Illness

7. Conclusions