Mental health services make it possible to deliver effective interventions. The way these services are organized has an important bearing on their effectiveness and the ultimate fulfilment of the aims and objectives of, national mental health policies. This module begins with a description and analysis of the current forms of mental health service organisation found around the world. The current status of service organisation is reviewed and recommendations are made for organising mental health services, based on an optimal mix of a variety of services. The main recommendations are to integrate mental health services into general health care systems; develop formal and informal community mental health services; and promote and implement deinstitutionalization once alternative services are in place. Also available: "WHO Mental Health Policy and Service Guidance Package--14 modules" Other modules included in the package: "Improving Access and Use of Psychotropic Medicines Child and Adolescent Mental Health Policies and Plans Mental Health Policy, Plans and Programmes. Updated version Mental Health Context Mental Health Financing Advocacy for Mental Health Quality Improvement for Mental Health Planning and Budgeting to Deliver Services for Mental Health Mental Health Legislation and Human Rights Mental Health Policies and Programmes in the Workplace Mental Health Information Systems Human Resources and Training in Mental Health Monitoring and Evaluation of Mental Health Policies and Plans"