Key concepts in mental health - David Pilgrim

Electronic Inspection Copy available for instructors here

"This book wins on two levels: not only is there an extensive range of concepts presented (including some that are unexpected yet clearly relevant), there is also a succinct, thorough and critical dissection of each. Recommended, if not essential, reading for all student mental health professionals." - Dr Steven Pryjmachuk, Head of Mental Health Division, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester

Mental health is an area that new students and trainee practitioners often find bewildering. This book cuts through the stigma associated with this topic. It delivers bite-sized chunks of information that cover the central concepts and debates which shape contemporary views about mental health and illness. As this book shows, these key concepts not only influence our understanding of mental health, but also govern the provision of services for people with mental-health problems.

Drawing together perspectives from sociology, psychiatry, psychology and ethics, the vital topics in mental health are examined in three parts:

- PART ONE: Mental Health and Mental-Health Problems explores theories and understandings of mental health and illness

- PART TWO: Mental Health Services looks at the structure and organization of mental health service delivery, past and present

- PART THREE: Mental Health and Society studies the social context.

This new edition adds 10 new concepts as well as updating the previous entries. New topics include childhood adversity, recovery, spirituality, well-being, social and cultural capital, quality of mental-health services, evidence-based practice, and work and mental health. This book will be invaluable for trainee health professionals, including clinical psychologists, social workers, nurses, counsellors and psychotherapists.