Describes the current model for understanding the onset and relapse of mental illness including risk factors and protective factors.

Offers a comprehensive guide to the use of medications in the treatment of mental illnesses, including general guidelines and precautions, a description of antipsychotic medications in general, then specifically at conventional antipsychotic medications, atypical types, anticholinergic medications, mood stabilizers, medications used for anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Includes generic names and trade names, the primary use of each medication type and possible side effects.

Describes the Victorian Mental Health Act (1986) and many of the legal concepts relating to it including informal and involuntary status, informed consent, Community Treatment Orders and confidentiality. Protective bodies including the Guardianship and Administration Board, the Mental Health Review Board, Community Visitors, the Chief Psychiatrist and the Office of the Public Advocate are also detailed.

Provides valuable information regarding the public and private, government and non-government, and hospital and community elements to the Victorian Mental Health System.

Describes the application of this model through the phases of acute illness to recovery.

Details the model of crisis and intervention.

This article advocates for, and illustrates the effectiveness of, the rehabilitation model in mental illness.