For many years the prior editions, written by David Mechanic alone, have been the standard text for students of mental health policy. This edition promises to continue to be the standard text because it provides so much information and insight so clearly and briefly.

When a leading mental health advocate says, "The infrastructure for the public mental-health system is in the worst shape it's been in 40 years," I wonder what he's thinking. Maybe it's just rhetorical flourish, but it is false and counterproductive.

While 21st century approaches to public health have increasingly focused on healthy living with diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and access to preventive health care, there is a growing evidence base to incorporate mental health into our nation's public health agenda.