This book makes a highly innovativecontribution to overcoming the stigma and discrimination associated with mentalillness – still the heaviest burden both for those afflicted and those caringfor them. The scene is set by the presentation of different fundamentalperspectives on the problem of stigma and discrimination by researchers,consumers, families, and human rights experts. Current knowledge and practiceused in reducing stigma are then described, with information on the programmesadopted across the world and their utility, feasibility, and effectiveness. Thecore of the volume comprises descriptions of new approaches and innovativeprogrammes specifically designed to overcome stigma and discrimination. In theclosing part of the book, the editors – all respected experts in the field –summarize some of the most important evidence- and experience-basedrecommendations for future action to successfully rewrite the long andburdensome ‘story’ of mental illness stigma and discrimination.