I nuovi disagi della civiltà nell’epoca della crisi dei servizi pubblici (..come e se baciare il rospo, non sapendo se si trasformerà in principe) - In this paper, the author introduces the theme of how the new troubles of postmodern civilization are reflected in the new needs expressed by the patients and families that turn to public services for help. The very forms of suffering have changed and requests are much greater than institutions can handle. Seizing the novelties of our times starting from the social conditions that influence the formation and development of the mental structure is crucial in order to identify the causes of the suffering of patients, families and institutions in which therapists work.