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The Short Guide to Mental Health
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25 March 2025

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.
Deirdre Heenan is Professor of Social Policy at Ulster University and Senior Associate at Nuffield Trust London.
Jennifer Betts is Research Associate at Ulster University, currently working with IMPACT (Improving Adult Care Together).
Introduction
1. Mental health and mental illness
2. Development of policy
3. Organisation of mental health services
4. The rise of the service user movement and the concept of recovery
5. Social determinants of mental health
6. Stigma
7. The media and mental health
Conclusion