Review

A text to keep in mind

Preventing Mental Illness
Jennifer Newton
Routledge, 1988 (reprinted 1989, 1990, 1993), £12.99

The prevention of mental illness is an issue which mystifies many knowledgeable and experienced practitioners in psychiatry. This is not surprising because such ‘experts’ are generally only concerned with situations in which preventive strategies have failed, but it does leave the question of who should have responsibility for ensuring that strategies to prevent the occurrence and recurrence of mental illness are implemented. Preventing Mental Illness begins to address such questions.

Drawing on extensive research and practice on mental illness, in particular depression and schizophrenia, this book continues to be ‘the text’ in an area of sparse competition.

It critically examines a formidable range of complex issues relating to the occurrence and prevention of mental illnesses, yet manages to combine an academic approach with a clear view of the implications of such debates for practice. The practical recommendations extend from interventions for use with vulnerable individuals, through supportive strategies for groups, to policy initiatives which might address broader social issues affecting large numbers.

Although the book remains useful and relevant, it is not wholly contemporary: the health service has changed dramatically since it was first written. This is most evident in the brief section on primary care services.

In view of the current focus on serious mental illness in secondary care services, primary care services now need more extensive and specific guidelines on the most effective ways to develop their role in prevention of mental illness and relapse.

In addition, there is now a more substantial body of research on interventions which might reduce relapse in people with serious mental illness which could usefully be included.

I would recommend this text for all those working in mental health services and for GPs, practice nurses and social workers. It is a useful reference text but its readability ensures that it can equally well be read from front cover to back for those wishing to acquire an in-depth understanding.