The management view of the future of occupational therapy in mental health.

The dramatic changes in the field of mental health and their impact over the past ten years are reviewed in this article. The community mental health movement, the decline of the state hospital, court decisions, and new laws have resulted in a new atmosphere in psychiatric practice. The future role of the state hospital is examined, particularly in view of the scandalous situation of the long-term chronic patient. Some clear implications for the field of occupational therapy are drawn from this background. Challenges are given in the areas of training and research, innovative programming, management, and for the professional association.