Introduction

Abstract

We are changing—and improving—the ways in which we plan and deliver mental health services. But if we are to continue to improve, we need to change the way we think about mental health. Instead of a ‘disease model’, which assumes that emotional distress is merely a symptom of biological illness, we would all benefit if we were to embrace and implement a social and psychological approach to mental health and wellbeing that recognises our essential and shared humanity.