Skip to Main Content

Healing the Broken Mind: Transforming America's Failed Mental Health System

Online ISBN:
9780814749104
Print ISBN:
9780814748121
Publisher:
NYU Press
Book

Healing the Broken Mind: Transforming America's Failed Mental Health System

Published:
1 August 2009
Online ISBN:
9780814749104
Print ISBN:
9780814748121
Publisher:
NYU Press

Abstract

Few afflictions are as frightening or as heartbreaking as mental illness. We have come a long way over the past few decades in our understanding of mental illness and its potential treatments. Yet, tragically, many across the country who struggle with serious mental illness are unable to find effective, quality medical treatment. As a federal commission on mental health concluded, the system of care is in shambles. But why? And how do we fix it? This book exposes the weaknesses in the current system, examining how and why one of the world's richest and most advanced countries has allowed its most vulnerable citizens to be victimized by the very system designed to help them. The book argues that the patchwork of care traditionally employed for mental health treatment is simply not up to the task, and that what we need is profound, fundamental, and system-wide change in mental health services. The book then goes on to provide an easy-to-follow road map for achieving lasting transformation, centered on five recommendations for creating a truly effective mental health system of care that enables patients to achieve a lasting recovery. Mental illness is not going to just go away, but the book prescribes a comprehensive plan to make treatment accessible and effective so that those who suffer can rejoin their families and their communities. It shows how a transformed system of community-based care allows those with serious mental illness to finally be able to go home.

Contents
Close
This Feature Is Available To Subscribers Only

Sign In or Create an Account

Close

This PDF is available to Subscribers Only

View Article Abstract & Purchase Options

For full access to this pdf, sign in to an existing account, or purchase an annual subscription.

Close