This special edition contains the background material prepared for the Indian Health Service (IHS) Mental Health Program Review session of January 17-19, 1984 which reviewed the background of the Mental Health Program, assessed the major current management and programmatic issues, and developed recommendations for improving the program. The Review session's agenda is provided and is followed by a listing of the participants. The seven sections of this edition cover the session's discussion topics on the mental health status of American Indians and Alaska Natives, history and description of the program, services for children and adolescents, evaluation and research findings along with needs for an evaluation and reporting system, organization and funding, contracting under P.L. 93-638 (Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act), and exploring and clarifying the mission and future direction of the IHS Mental Health Program. Meant to serve as a basis for discussion during the review, each section provides background information, a bibliography, and illustrative tables regarding its topic. (PM)