The purpose of this book is to introduce the importance of vitamins and its use in the treatment of schizophrenia, mood and movement disorders. This subject has been already known for many years. In the last years this issue has become "hot" again. To date there is new modern data based on controlled studies leading to a new attitude in consumption of these preparations. The present experience is related to higher doses in contrast to those which were used previously in addition to the scientific base data consisting of new knowledge about the mechanism of action and the influence on different dimensions. The chapters will include theoretical and scientific background as well as practical data based conclusions which might be useful for the clinician in everyday practice.

Vitamin D is a secosteroid, fat-soluble vitamin and a hormone precursor that plays an important role in bone metabolism and has certain anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties as well. It appears to have an effect on numerous diseases and disorders, including osteoporosis, chronic musculoskeletal pain, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disease and cancers of the breast, prostate and colon. Although it is a well-known fact that combination of vitamin D and calcium is necessary to maintain bone density as people age, vitamin D may also be an independent risk factor for falls among the elderly. This book introduces the importance of vitamin D and its overall deficiency in human life. The book contains nine chapters and a commentary in which the authors try to summarize some of the most interesting and important subjects in which vitamin D plays a major role.

The ageing of populations and the high prevalence of chronic diseases are risk factors for suicide, as well as the increasing prevalence of several mental disorders. The continuing growth of several other risk factors for suicide makes it possible to predict an increase in suicide rates worldwide unless resolute action is undertaken to prevent suicidal behaviour. A major problem in that respect is that, in many countries, suicide is not seen as a major public health problem despite its frequency and the severity of its consequences. A textbook bringing together current knowledge about suicide, its causes and its prevention is a precious tool for public health efforts and for clinicians' daily work and provides useful information from psychological, sociological and cultural perspectives which will help health professionals and provide them with data that they can use in developing proposals for action.