Arguments for the retention of psychiatric hospitals are outlined by the author, who relates negative experiences of countries (Italy & the U.K.) who have adopted community care. One of many risks faced by the ex-resident of a psychiatric facility is suicide. He claims there is a surge of suicide following discharge, which is especially high for schizophrenics (17 times the rate for the general population). Mortality rates have also been found to increase in patients cared for in the community.