The updated Fourth Edition of this widely used text is tailored for undergraduate nursing programs that cover a condensed psychiatric-mental health core course. It provides a solid foundation in nursing theory, therapeutic methods, and clinical applications for major DSM-IV-TR disorders, spanning the treatment continuum from hospital to home. The book follows the nursing process framework and highlights assessment, therapeutic communication, neurobiology, and psychopharmacologic interventions. It also focuses on enhancing student self-awareness, communication skills, and the use of family and community resources. Additionally, it includes a CD-ROM and companion website with various resources for students and instructors, such as clinical simulations and psychotropic drug monographs.