Effectiveness in mental health: a review and rethink of some basic assumptions and common practices

Despite recent advances in mental health research and treatment, prevalence rates remain high and stable in many countries around the globe. Current efforts to address the problem largely focus on identifying biological causes and correlates of mental disorders on the one hand, and large-scale structural reform of the health system on the other. This thesis took a different approach. It reflected on the role that psychological theory, research and practice plays in this predicament and what steps could be implemented to help improve effectiveness and efficiency in mental health programs.