The whole spectrum of mental health does not get the attention given to general health services. It is the Cinderella of the health service. This is also reflected in the allocation of resources. Mental health has long been regarded as the hidden illness, but, thankfully, the stigma attached to it is receding and there is now a new understanding and some enlightenment. It is now recognised for what it is – an illness with parallels to physical illness, in which it is often entwined.