Discussion of primary prevention has been made difficult by lack of
clarity of underlying concepts and assumptions. Is the purpose to prevent
diagnosable mental illness or to prevent unhappiness and social
incompetence? What are the implications of the assumption that societal
stress causes mental illness? Is there a clear distinction made between
major and minor mental illness? Except for a few specific conditions there
is little evidence that primary prevention has been effective. The authors
feel that research and program evaluation in prevention is sorely needed
but should be funded separately and with discretion. Scarce mental health
funds should not be diverted from direct treatment for this purpose.
Abstract Teaser