Changing needs and new perspectives in Chinese psychiatry and mental health services.

As a populated developing country, China may have needs and perspectives similar to some countries from which she could learn, but there are always some differences and China has to create her own way to fit the service. In summary, short of budget, short of professionals and low recognition are the three main obstacles for mental health. The family resource and the traditional Chinese medicine may play valuable role in mental health. It is important to use the rich World heritage and experience of psychiatry to make the right choice for China and provide scientific, equitable and efficient mental health service for one fifth of world population.