This handbook provides practical information about the special needs of adult students (especially in literacy programs) who are being treated for mental disorders. The handbook includes teaching strategies for meeting these needs, as well as basic information about mental disorders and their treatment. The handbook is divided into six chapters that cover the following topics: (1) mental disorders and treatments; (2) the mental health system; (3) memory and mental disorder; (4) problems and strategies for literacy coordinators and instructors; (5) problems and strategies for students; and (6) training tutors of people with mental disorders. The guide also contains the following: a word list and glossary of terms; a resource guide listing books, articles, videotapes, newsletters, and organizations concerned with teaching adults with mental disorders; and 127 references. (KC)