‘This handbook planned for carer's will offer relatives and friends with noteworthy organizational health care information. It will also help guide carer's regarding the key roles, and the functions of support agencies that are seen as crucial elements when planning and seeking alternative care interventions…This book aims to provide carers with basic facts and the confidence to deal more effectively with their role.' - The International Journal of Psychiatric Nursing Research This is an essential resource for all people caring for family members or friends with mental illness. Written by experts, Mental Illness: A Handbook for Carers provides basic information on: * forms of mental illness * treatment plans * what to do in an emergency * the role of mental health professionals and other agencies * legal issues and confidentiality * housing, work and benefits. Mental Illness examines the provision made for people with mental illness and their carers, and the support that is available to them. It includes information on housing, employment, social services and the law. The writers avoid jargon, and the book includes a glossary of terms with which carers may be unfamiliar. Accessible, practical and comprehensive, this handbook acts as a one-stop shop for anyone caring for a person with a mental illness.