'This book gives a ‘bottom-up’, practical overview of mental health. I have distilled psychological, biological and sociological background material and siphoned off anything that is not relevant to primary care. I aim to demystify the management of common problems and empower the reader to have a more rewarding and fun time at work and a better ability to cope with the ever-increasing demand and challenge of dealing with multiple physical and mental health issues often brought by a single individual to a time-limited consultation’ Mark Morris

This book provides an up-to-date guide to mental health for primary core workers who are not experts in the field. It is logically structured, providing a clear overview of causal factors before presenting individual conditions in a diagnostic heirarchy. Particular attention is given to areas where where there has been a deficit in understanding or training, along with problems that are most frequently encountered and managed in primary care. Meanwhile, a Psychological Tools section introduces solid practical frameworks for managing mental health problems developed from cognitive behaviour therapy, solution-focused and motivational interviewing techniques. A selection of resources for patients is also included.

‘I aim to demystify the management of common problems and empower the reader to have a more rewarding and fun time at work and a better ability to cope with the ever-increasing demand and challenge of dealing with multiple physical and mental health issues often brought by a single individual to a time-limited consultation.’
Mark Morris in his Introduction

'I longed for a book like this when I was in clinical practice. I am very pleased to find that it has been written at last and written so well.' Andrew Polmear in his Foreword

Section 1: Causation
Vulnerability and Resilience
Stressors - precipitating factors

Section 2: Problem areas - Assessment
Dementia and Delirium
Alcohol and Drugs
Psychosis
Mood Problems
Anxiety Issues and Medically Unexplained Symptoms Personality Issues
Eating Disorders

Section 3: Psychological tools
Psychological tools - Background Considerations
Psychological tools - Promoting Change In A Specific Area
Psychological Tools - Tools for General Use

Section 4: Patient resources