This key textbook introduces the diverse and vibrant field of mental health practice to students, learners and workers, who are new to the subject. Written in a lively and engaging style, Learning About Mental Health Practice covers all the essentials of professional practice that students need to master in order to be successful in both their qualification course and their future career. Illustrated and augmented throughout with case studies, practical examples and interactive exercises, Learning About Mental Health Practice covers all 10 Essential Shared Capabilities - recommended by the Department of Health to be core in the curricula of all pre and post qualification training for professional and non-professionally affiliated staff as well as being embedded in induction and continuing professional/practitioner development. Other topics covered include: * Socially inclusive practice * Equality and rights * Challenges to the concept of 'mental illness' * The Trauma model of psychosis * Drugs, alcohol and mental health * Service user involvement * Working with families and carers * Multi-disciplinary team working * Approaches for practice - therapeutic relationships, psychological, psychosocial, creative, spiritual and holistic approaches * Promoting recovery Invaluable as a student resource, readers will continue to refer to this book throughout their working lives.