The health of the chronically mentally ill: a review of the literature.

This paper reviews three areas of research on the health of the chronically mentally ill: epidemiological studies on this population, studies exploring the clinical interface of physical and psychiatric disorder, and studies illuminating barriers to adequate health care for this population. Its purpose is to increase our understanding of the unique health problems facing the chronically mentally ill so that appropriate interventions can be developed. The review suggests that greater attention to this area should result in improved physical health as well as improved psychiatric intervention. The implications for policy, practice, and research are discussed.