Objective: To describe how mental health policy is developed and implemented.Methods: A review of the literature on public policy analysis and the experience of the author in the development and implementation of national mental health policy.Results: A five-step process of problem identification, policy development, political decision, policy implementation and evaluation provides a framework for understanding the policy cycle.Conclusion: An understanding of this process is essential for psychiatrists and other mental health professionals in order to influence the process and content of mental health policy.