ABSTRACT
Psychiatry exists in a state of constant change. This book provides an overview of the contemporary state of the field, explores key issues of discussion, dissent, and debate, and outlines directions for the future. This is an evidence-based ‘state of psychiatry’ book, intended for both mental health professionals and general readers who are curious about the position of psychiatry in the world today and its prospects for the future. The Introduction, like all chapters, starts with an anonymised clinical case history. The rest of the Introduction outlines the purpose of the book, defines ‘psychiatry’ and ‘psychiatrist’, and provides an overview of what to expect in each subsequent chapter.
