Care of people with mental health conditions Books

Book SynopsisHow does it feel when someone you love develops dementia? How do you cope with the shock, the stress and the grief? Can you be sure that you and your family will receive the support you need? In Telling Tales About Dementia, thirty carers from different backgrounds and in different circumstances share their experiences of caring for a parent, partner or friend with dementia. They speak from the heart about love and loss: 'I still find it hard to believe that Alzheimer's has happened to us,' writes one contributor, 'as if we were sent the wrong script.' The stories told here vividly reflect the tragedy of dementia, the gravity of loss, and instances of unsatisfactory diagnosis, treatment and care. But they contain hope and optimism too: clear indications that the quality of people's lives can be enhanced by sensitive support services, by improved understanding of the impact of dementia, by recognising the importance of valuing us all as human beings, and by embracing and sustaining the connections between us. This unique collection of personal accounts will be an engaging read for anyone affected by dementia in a personal or professional context, including relatives of people with dementia, social workers, medical practitioners and care staff.Trade Review... these 208 pages (with additional glossary, lists of recommended reading and helpful organisations), does have genuinely uplifting moments, sprinkled among the diverse and informative case studies: this is a genuinely moving document, and the wealth of experience drawn on merits careful consideration... Given present estimates that there are 700,000 individuals in the UK experiencing some form of dementing illness, books such as this serve a valuable purpose. -- Working with Older People, Stephen Weeks, Book Reviews EditorDespite the increasing number of books on caring for a person with dementia, few capture the perspective of the carer to the degree managed by Lucy Whitman in her edited book Telling Tales about Dementia... Together the real-life stories provide a range of insights into: the grief and stress of losing a loved one to dementia ('Living with loss'); managing the challenges of dealing with the care system ('Dispatches from the battlefield'); and maintaining communication with a relative with advanced dementia and/or keeping them company at the end of life ('Keeping in touch, letting go'). These are supplemented by a very useful contextualising introduction by the editor, and some recommended reading and a list of helpful organisations at the end. These moving and personal stories, which are a mixture of the voices of the carers themselves and a transcription of a discussion with the editor, evidence the complexity, pain and variety of both "having dementia" and dementia caring experiences. The fact that some of the tales are accompanied by photographs, that one contribution is in the form of a poem and that the tales are from carers from a variety of backgrounds strengthens the book's capacity to provide a genuine cornucopia of human experience "warts and all"... One the most powerful dimensions of the book is its multiple perspectives and inspiring portrays of astonishing levels of stoicism, devotion, resilience and love displayed by "ordinary" people for their relatives and friends with a chronic, disabling and distressing condition...The book unashamedly adopts the subjective experience of dementia caring as its standpoint and offers a rich source of raw evidence about what it is like to care for someone you love with dementia in the real world, right now. -- Quality in Ageing and Older AdultsI know of no book at all comparable to this recent Jessica Kingsley publication... Telling Tales about Dementia will be a great encouragement to other carers. They will feel in the company of those who do understand the agony and the poignancy from the inside. It also has so much to contribute to the understanding and training of professional carers. It is devoutly to be hoped that, as the government's national dementia strategy is implemented, it will address some of the vital concerns so vividly depicted in this book. -- Christian Council on AgeingAs a practitioner in dementia support, I found this book inspiring. With dementia rising up the healthcare agenda and the government's dementia strategy acknowledging the scale of future needs, it is important to listen to the voice of people living with dementia in service planning. -- Nursing StandardEvery one of these stories is a jewel-house of observation, dedication and feeling. Every one can and should be used to teach us as individuals and in reflective groups - be we informal (family) carers or professionals... This is a wonderful book which we must be thankful for and make good use of. -- For Dementia PlusThere is much to be learned from these thirty moving and beautifully written stories of carers looking after people they love and who have dementia. The accounts are all very different and each has something special to tell us about the centrality of relationships and life histories in understanding and caring for anyone. -- John Burton - Caring Times; Standards for PracticeThese personal accounts by family carers, harrowing, distressing, but also inspiring and uplifting, will have you weeping one moment and laughing the next, as they describe struggling to manage situations that range from horrific to comical. How do you cope alone with your loved one's slow loss of rational thought and behaviour? You cannot - and you need not. The single most valuable achievement of this book is to tell carers they are not alone. The more of us there are, the stronger we become, and the better we can fight for our loved ones in the face of this cruel disease. -- John Suchet, broadcaster, who is caring for his wife Bonnie, who has dementia.These accounts are a tribute to the abiding insistence on according dignity to every one of us until our last breath. Reading these stories will make us all, in the words of one of the contributors, "determined to make a difference". -- Joanna Trollope, OBE, Patron 'For Dementia'This anthology... is a captivating and essential read for all professionals trying to understand and help families caring for a loved one living with dementia. Echoes of indifference in the face of family devotion and upset stand in distressingly sharp contrast. I was left in no doubt that all health and social care practitioners, including those working in care homes who read these tales will be unable to stop themselves looking at what they do and asking can we not do better? -- Dr Graham Stokes, Consultant Clinical PsychologistThese powerful stories should be read by everyone involved in health and social care, from commissioners designing services to those giving direct care and support. I hope they will also be read by those who have had no previous contact with dementia, to help combat the stigma it still carries through lack of public awareness... The accounts are moving, engrossing, sprinkled with quirky humour, and truthful. There is both warm praise and angry criticism of services. I hope the book will play its part alongside the National Dementia Strategy to help eradicate some of the glaring bad practice it highlights... Vivid personalities shine through, reminding us that every person with dementia, every carer and every caring relationship, is different and individual, therefore services need to be sensitive, personal and flexible. -- Dementia CareThe stories of these carers - sisters, brothers, husbands, wives, lovers and friends - are not confined to the painful subject of dementia: the book is also about anger, loss, love and loyalty. It's both powerful and moving. -- Diana Melly, writer and widow of jazz legend George Melly, who had dementia in his final yearsThis book will speak to other carers who will empathise with or learn from different chapters. However, the narratives across the chapters also provide strong lessons and experiences that both increase understanding and highlight key issues for a much wider audience - particularly for formal carers, service developers, policy makers, commissioners and anyone with an interest in improving the experience of living with dementia for both the person and their close friends and family. Central to this is the importance of relationships in all their complexity and form: the book illustrates this fundamental importance beautifully. -- The Journal of Ageing and Society, Heather Wilkinson, Co-Director of the Centre for Research on Families and Relationships and Research Director for the School of Health in Social Science at the University of EdinburghTelling Tales About Dementia: Experiences of Caring offers experiences from some thirty care givers from different backgrounds and circumstances who describe their experiences caring for a partner, parent or friend with dementia. Any affected by dementia in either a professional or personal realm will find this collection eye-opening, engaging, and educational. -- The Midwest Book ReviewThis is a powerful collection of first hand accounts by 30 people who have cared for a person with dementia... The contributors are commendably diverse in terms of ethnicity, age, gender and sexuality. They include spouses, children, siblings and friends of the person they care for... Carers of people with dementia are the main audience for this book, and they will find much to identify with and much to support them... It is equally important that professionals read this kind of book, and not just those with a specialist knowledge of dementia, as one of the key messages is a failure to recognise and understand dementia. Taken together these short stories are probably more effective than a shelf full of dementia strategies and books about person-centred care. -- Ros Levenson, Mental Health TodayStory-telling is a compelling way of shedding light on difficult situations. No two families are the same and it is impossible to generalise about the impact on relationships of a condition like dementia. Reading about individuals, however, offers an insight into the changes dementia can bring. A strength of this book is the variety of situations and relationships it covers. There are families from different cultures as well as gay and lesbian carers, who help us see some of the special challenges for carers from minority groups. There are a disproportionate number of carers looking after people of working age with dementia, but this is helpful as the situation of younger people warrants greater attention and awareness. Photographs break up the text and bring the stories to life, adding to the vivid impression that the reader is being invited into the carer's home to meet the person for whom they are caring. -- Julia Burton-Jones, Relatives and Residents Association NewsletterTelling Tales is a testament to human attachment, resourcefulness and humour in the face of immense challenge. It is a compelling read. -- Beryl Hylton Downing, Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeOn reading a book like this one learns to brace oneself for raw accounts of the losses which go along with dementia, the hugely difficult and complex situations people have to deal with, and painful examples of lamentably poor care or even abuse. There is a great deal of honesty and directness here, and the very real pain, anger and guilt which those close to the person with dementia experience as a result comes through loud and clear. But there are also examples of highly sensitive and loving interventions, as well as precious and sustaining moments of shared joy, humour and gratitude. These remind us that dementia does not have to be all about deterioration and grief, and there are many opportunities to learn and grow. -- -Kate Allan, Faith in Older PeopleTable of ContentsForeword. Preface. Acknowledgements. Introduction. Section 1: Living with Loss. 1. A Big Enough Supply of Love. Maria Jastrzebska. 2. We Don't Know What is Going Through Her Mind. Jennifer Davies. 3. The Departing Light. Jim Swift. 4. Walking on Thin Ice. Rachael Dixey. 5. The Most Difficult Decision of My Life. Debbie Jackson. 6. We Learn to Enter Her World. U Hla Htay. 7. Half a World Away. Anna Young. 8.Have You Seen My Pat? Pat Hill. 9. Feisty Love. Maria Smith. 10. Glimpses of Glory on a Long Dark Road. Helen Robinson. 11. Our Mum Had To Be The Man of The House. The Malik Family. 12. On The Contrary. Lucy Whitman. 13. Family Matters. Ian McQueen. 14. Back and Forth. Geraldine McCarthy. 15. A Very Important Moustache. Steve Jeffery. Section 2: Despatches from the Battlefield. 16. This Has Gone Beyond My Mother. Marylyn Duncan. 17. Rage, Rage. Jenny Thomas. 18. Forever in My Thoughts. Rosie Smith. 19. A Sister's Story. Peggy Fray. 20. Surely the World has Changed. Roger Newman. 21. Look Back in Anger. Shirley Nurock. 22. Cracks in the System. Pat Brown. 23. Strained to the Limit. Andra Houchen. 24. Break on Through to the Other Side. Louisa Houchen. 25. Rocking the Boat. Sheena Sanderson. 26. The Significant Other. Brian Baylis. 27. An Instruction Manual for Keeping Your Mind. Gail Chester. Section 3: Keeping In Touch, Letting Go. 28. When Words Fail. Barbara Pointon. 29. The End of The Story. Tim Dartington. 30. State of Grace. Rosemary Clarke. Glossary. Recommended Reading. Helpful Organisations. The Contributors. What is for dementia?

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Book SynopsisThis is a practical handbook for all professionals, especially those based in the community, and others working with people suffering from schizophrenia. It is concerned with promoting real understanding of their experiences and developing effective ways to facilitate them to maintain a reasonable quality of life.Featuring many contributions from sufferers, carers and service providers, and based on a tried and tested needs based approach pioneered by the author and her colleagues, it begins by looking at the present `state of play' in society's approach to schizophrenia, and the experiences of both sufferers and their families. It goes on to identify the needs raised by such experiences and considers ways of meeting such needs, before detailing methods of intervention, including groupwork and the provision of resources.Trade Review`This is clearly a valuable book and, in the present climate of concern about the wisdom or otherwise of caring for schizophrenic patients in the community, it has particular relevance. Many professionals in this challenging area will find this book useful, and a good basis for discussing relevant issues with colleagues and trainees. The discussion of resources, unusual in books in this area, is very welcome. What this book does is to provide a very sensible discussion of a way of managing, and working with, schizophrenic patients and their families in the community. Thus it complements, very effectively, the existing technical literature.' - Behaviour Research and Therapy`The author has a positive and optimistic approach with realistic suggestions for improving care in an area where development is much needed. The content is topical and pertinent. By allowing the families and patients to `speak' for themselves, she achieves a clarity of expression which is both valuable and helpful for increasing awareness and understanding on the part of the reader. This would be particularly valuable for students or staff with limited experience, but is salutary reading for anyone. The problem is that those who most need to read it will probably not. Make sure you are not in this category.' -- British Journal of Occupational Therapy`In this thoroughly engaging and readable book, the author draws on years of practical experience to give a committed and compassionate account of working with people who suffer from schizophrenia and their carers…I would recommend that mental health nursing students and practitioners working with this client group do read it - not the least for the challenges it poses for services and service-providers.' -Nursing Times`Twenty years as a psychiatric social worker ably distilled into a readable form.' -- National Schizophrenia Fellowship Today`Gwen Howe fulfils her aim in providing a handbook for mental health professionals working with people who have schizophrenia. She writes with conviction keeping a balance between research that has been undertaken in the general area of the affliction and the vivid case studies of individuals … offers useful and well formed questions to draw out a sufferer in order to assess change.' -- British Journal of Social Work`good advice about social security benefits and rightly emphasises the importance of preventing crisis through early access and the ready availability of relevant information.' -- British Medical Journal`a practical handbook for professionals, written without jargon and without pretension … A warm book, that pulls no punches, I strongly recommend it to all professionals working with people who suffer from this cruel disorder.' -- Journal of the Royal Society of Health`presents some creative and practical suggestions … offers an excellent training tool for workers new to mental health and to students.' -- Social Workers Christian Fellowship`many service providers and trainers would benefit greatly from its down to earth approach … a basic, useful approach to mental illness … written with the authority of one who has worked for years in the field as a professional … a good beginner's guide.' -- Don Young, Director, The Schizophrenia Association of Great Britain`wideranging and readable...I warmly commend Gwen Howe's book...an essential handbook for families of schizophrenia sufferers.' -NSF Today`This is a practical book, written without jargon, and without pretension, and based on the author's extensive working experience. It emphasises the importance of listening to sufferers and their relatives, respecting emotional reactions and their formulations of their difficulties, and helping them to reach their own solutions. It is underscored by a passionate belief in human rights, and in the potential of people with schizophrenia to attain a better quality of life than many find possible. The book will be valuable to many people for the detailed information it contains, the understanding of human dilemmas which it conveys, and the humanity with which it is written. It should be standard reading for professionals in the mental health services. Voluntary workers and families trying to help a person with schizophrenia will find in it much that they need to know; and many sufferers will find it a source of support and assistance, as they try to cope with their own problems, and the day-to-day stresses of their lives.' -- from the Foreword by Kathleen JonesTable of ContentsForeword. Introduction. Part I: About Schizophrenia. 1. Reality, Not Myth! 2. What Happens to sufferers. 3. What Happens to Families. Part II: Identifying and Meeting Needs 4. Priorities the Whole Family. 5. Priorities for sufferers. 6. Meeting Needs Indentified by Families. 7. Meeting Needs Identified by Sufferers. Part III: A Needs Based Approach 8. Explanations and Sharing Information. 9. Dealing with Specific Problems. 10. An Effective Resource. 11. Reality Testing and Other Strategies. 12. Needs Based Groupwork. Part IV: A Way Forward 13. Damage Limitation. References. Useful addresses. Further reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisExamining the theory and practice of work with people with mental health problems, this volume considers the current state of policy and organisation and the changes that have taken place over the last decade in the field. The book charts the move away from separate, specialist services, and the resultant impact on service provision and concerns over dilution of expertise. Using research findings and case studies, the contributors discuss:* the perception of clients by social work organisations* the implementation of services* the impact of community care arrangements* the circumstances of clients who are `hidden' from social services* the `mismatch' between clients' needs and provision offered* the issues of empowerment and assessment of risk as well as with the more `public' factors of resources and confidence in models of care* and the interaction between the various agencies involved with this client group.Trade ReviewThe exploration of the research issues in mental health social work, chapter five, is illuminating in its demonstration of how much more work needs to be done. The dilemma of role conflict is ably demonstrated in the discussion regarding the role of social worker as mental health officer. The conflict between being an advocate for the individual and guardian of public safety is one that is very tangible for many workers within the mental health and social care field. Fernando's chapter, seven, on ethnicity and mental health offers the most general focus of the issues explored. This is especially true in light of the current discussions surrounding the Stephen Lawrence case and institutional racism. An overview of studies relating to ethnicity and mental illness offers a useful introduction to many issues, as does a commentary on the ethnocentric nature of counselling and psychotherapy. -- Journal of Interprofessional CareThis book is a fine addition to the Research Highlights in Social Work series, which has the aim of drawing together different aspects of the subject, highlighting relevant research and making connections with policy and practice. The chapters in this text from a range of contributors admirably meet these goals. Mental Health and Social Work consists of 12 chapters covering subjects such as community-based mental health services, ethnicity and mental health, depression in old age, maternal depression, service evaluation and service users' perceptions on social work services. As a Mental Health Officer and Senior Social Worker, I am most impressed by Myers chapter entitled Social Workers as Mental Health Officers: Different Hats, Different Roles? She teases out the overlapping organisational and practice issues which impact on the worker's role. The editors are to be congratulated for producing a book that reflects the current state with regard to policy and practice in social work services for people with mental health problems. I would strongly recommend it to social work practioners, managers and service planners. -- RostrumThis is the latest (number 28) in the series Research Highlights In Social Work, which has provided as excellent source of material for practioners for a number of years. It builds on some of the ideas considered in an earlier volume in 1985 that looked at mental illness. The change in terminology is considered in the introduction. The editors also identify a number of other significant changes such as the growth in influence of the user movement. The main chapters are from a range of contribuitors, many of whom, reflecting the base of the series, are from Scotland. This is particularly relevant in terms of the chapters on the Mental Welfare Commission and on the role of mental health officers. These provide a refreshing change from the number of 'British' texts which tend to ignore the law outside England. I found the two chapters that consider the role of the mental health officer to be particularly informative and to be written a way that made for easy comparisons with the position of approved social workers in Nothern Ireland and England. All the chapters are well written and maintain the series' usual high standard of referencing. They look at community-based mental health services, ethnicity and mental health, depression in old age and service users' perspectives, among other topics. The book concludes with a comment from Jim Kiddle of the Scottish Users' Network. This text makes somes important recent research accessible and is highly recommended. -- Community CareTable of Contents1. Introduction and Overview, Anne Connor, independent consultant and Marion Ulas, University of Edinburgh. 2. Policy in to Practice: Creative Tension or Deadlock? 3. Community-Based Mental Health Services, Anne Connor. 4. Policy and Management of Social Work Services: The Mental Welfare Commission in the Context of Inspection, Christine E. McGregor, Alzheimer Scotland - Action on Dementia. 5. Research Issues in Mental Health Social Work, Marion Ulas. 6. Social Workers as Mental Health Officers: Different Hats, Different Roles? Fiona Myers, University of Edinburgh. 7. Ethnicity and Mental Health, Suman Fernando, The Tizard Centre. 8. Depression in Old Age, Maureen O'Neill, Age Concern Scotland. 9. Maternal Depression in Child and Family Care: The Design, Development and Use of an Instrument for Research and Practice, Michael Sheppard, University of Plymouth. 10. Evaluation of Social Work Services for People with Mental Health Problems, Allyson McCollam, Scottish Development Centre for Mental Health Services and Julia White, freelance research consultant. 11. Service Users' Perspectives on Social Work Activities for People Experiencing Mental Health Problems, Julia White and Allyson McCollam. 12. Afterword, Jim Kiddie, Royal Edinburgh Hospital.

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Book SynopsisBy exploring different ways of managing these disorders, this book provides information and analysis for people who are in any way concerned with manic depressives. The possibilities for treatment discussed here include information about previously under-explored methods as well as new thinking on well-known treatments. The reasons for the onset of manic depression are considered in order to further understanding and assist treatment by increasing knowledge of how manic depressives actually feel. Particular difficulties in treatment are addressed, such as the unresponsiveness of the depressive and the problem of the manic high from which the patient may not want to recover. Such difficulties are explained and the contributors explore what can be done to provide long-term solutions, including the possibility of self-management.The contributors include psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. By including the approaches of these different professions, a balanced and comprehensive picture of the disorders and their effective management is built up.Trade Review`There is agreement throughout the text that no single 'cure' works for everyone and that the objective of treatment is to help patients 'manage' their lives in a way which reduces the severity and number of episodes experienced and improves psychosocial functioning in between. The professional contributions by a social worker, occupational therapist , psychologist and nurse on their particular roles were based mainly on case examples. These chapters hopefully will be of interest to users of mental health services who often find the input of different professionals difficult to distinguish and to evaluate. In conclusion I might add that because of the shortage of readable material on manic depression for a non-medical audience, this book is welcome.' -- International Social Work`Because there are a range of perspectives given, including cognitive, psychosocial, pharmacological, there is some overlap, but the different approaches are generally complimentary and contribute to an enjoyable and very readable book. It is well balanced and informative for professionals, sufferers and their families.` -- Issues in Social Work Education`Literature on manic depressive disorders is limited and this is undoubtedly an informative text. It will unquestionably provide useful reference for students of all disciplines including nursing.' -- Nursing TimesThe chapter on occupational therapy contains specific advice on how to help people when they are depressed and hypomanic and will be of interest to those who work with people with bipolar disorders on a day today basis. For thoseinvolved in running groups with people with manic-depressive disorders, the chapter on group therapy is very informative in terms of practical advice and drawing attention to the pitfalls, and is obviously written by someone with a great deal of practical experience in this area. One of the most interesting chapters in the book is that on self-management which is practical, balanced and offers hope to sufferes. although aimed at those experiencing the disorder, most professional will find it interesting and educational. Overall then, this book which has something for many people-service users, lay people and professionals- and is best seen as one from which to pick chapters of interest rather than one to be read cover to cover. - British Journal of Clinical Psychology.`…will appeal to the scientifically inclined patient in search of information, but perhaps more to the professional involved in his or her care. I strongly recommend this book, packed with information, holistic in approach, with a comprehensive bibliography and a genuine enthusiasm for successful management.' -- Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine`I found the book illuminating…I would therefore recommend it as of interest to all professionals and trainees likely to become involved in service provision…the book is a valuable resource, bringing together many different approaches and providing a rich source of references.' -- Journal of Social Work Practice`…accessible with explanations of terms and models, avoidance of jargon and an emphasis on pragmatic solutions…trainees starting out in psychiatry seeking a multidisciplinary text on the management of disorders will find it useful.' -- Journal of Psychiatric Case Reports`Nearly all the chapters are clearly written and contain down to earth, realistic, practical advice. This truly is a guide to management of a complex condition, and should be a valuable aid to advanced practice…All the main professions and therapies are included, as well as chapters on self-management and the role of relatives and friends. If you have people on your caseload with bi-polar mood disorders, this concisely written book is worthy of your attention.' -- Mental Health Nursing`The whole book offers a good insight into the problems and treatments available.' -- Church TimesTable of ContentsForeword, Myra Fulford, Director, The Manic Depressive Fellowship, UK. Professor Hugh Freeman: An Appreciation, Dennis Friedman, Honorary Lecturer in Psychiatry, St Bartholemew's Hospital, London. Introduction, Ved Varma. 1. Manic Depressive Illness: Services, David Kingdon, Medical Director, Nottingham Health Care Trust. 2. What Psychodynamic Approaches Can Do to Help, Charles Lund, Consultant Psychiatrist, Royal Victoria Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne. 3. What a Cognitive Behavioural Approach Can Do To Help, Alison Jenaway, Clinical Research Associate and Denis O'Leary, Clinical Lecturer, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge. 4. What Psychologists Can Do to Help, Anne Palmer, Clinical Psychologist, Hellesden Hospital, Norwich and Paul Gilbert, Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, University of Derby. 5. What Social Work Can Do to Help, Jean Nursten, Professor of Social Work, University of Reading. 6. What Nurses Can Do to Help, Paul Needham, Senior Lecturer in Health Sciences, Thames Valley University. 7. What Relatives and Friends Can Do to Help, Eia K Asen, Consultant Psychiatrist, Maudsley Hospital and Marlborough Family Consultation Centre, London. 8. What Drugs Can Do to Help, Jill Rasmussen, Clinical Psychopharmacologist, Surrey and Cosmo Hallstrom, Consultant Psychiatrist, The Charter Clinic, London. 9 What Hospitals Can Do to Help, Khaver Bashir, Research Fellow, Department of Psychiatry, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, University of London and Malcolm Weller, Consultant Psychiatrist, St Ann's Hospital. 10. What Group Therapy Can Do to Help, Maurice Greenberg, Head of Student Counselling Service, University College London, Consultant Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist, Camden and Islington NHS Community Health Services Trust and Group-Analytic Practice, London. 11. What Occupational Therapy Can Do to Help, Mandy J. Sainty, Occupational Therapist and Quality Development Facilitator, Mid Essex Community and Mental Health NHS Trust, Witham, Essex. 12. A Guide to Self-Management, David Guinness, Chair of The Manic Depressive Fellowship, UK. Author Index. Subject Index.

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Book SynopsisWritten with the help of sufferers and carers to give an accurate `consumer's perspective' of how the mental health services react when a person becomes mentally ill, Mental Health Assessments focuses on the problems that can arise when someone undergoes a formal assessment for compulsory admission to hospital. Using case studies drawn from real life and selected by the sufferers and carers, the book examines what can go wrong with the assessment process - for example, if an inappropriate section is made, or if the opportunity for an assessment is missed. The author describes the implications of current mental health legislation, including examples of both good and bad practice. She argues that the system can be slow to respond, and that in some cases the law fails to protect both the patient and their families. The final chapter draws out key issues from the assessment process, and provides suggestions for improving the care of those with a serious mental illness.Trade Review`I was pleased to have read it as it has given me an insight into mental health assesments which I may otherwise have overlooked…In my opinion it will make mental health professionals think hard about some of the decisions they make and assist nursing students in a better understanding of the people they are going to care for.' -- Mental Health Nursing`This is the second book in a series entitled Living with Mental Illness which is significant for being written, and on behalf of, a group of consumers of mental health services including both service users … defined here as suffers or survivors …and carers. For the social work audience it does not always make for comfortable reading, but the overall message deserves careful consideration at a time when mental health services are under the spotlight in terms of government policy, the review of the Mental Health Act 1983, and the development of National Service Frameworks. Each chapter of the book is constructed around a case study concerning one individual's experience of accessing mental health services. This is followed by comments from the author and an analysis and discussion of the issues from members of the LEAP (Living with the Experience Of Acute Psychosis) group. Each chapter concludes with a brief summary, relevant information such as details of legislation, and suggestions for discussion or a written excercise. This format works well and ensures that the content is accessible, clear and grounded in real-life experience. It also ensures that the book may be read by individuals, whether consumers or practioners, as well as being a resource for trainers. Notwithstanding these concerns, however, there is much in this book which would repay careful consideration, especially by Approved Social Workers and others involved in the care of people with serious mental illness. This book offers a relevant and stimulating contribution to the crucial issues involved in mental health assessment.' -- British Journal Of Social Work`The format of the book is accessible and easy to read. The case studies are very realistic …It illustrates accurately the complexities and difficulties associated with working with people with long-term mental health problems … Overall, I would recommend this book as a good tool to stimulate discussion and debate. It is meant to be used in a training capacity and provides a good platform from which to assist health professionals, clients and carers alike to identify the issues and better work together in partnership.' - British Journal of Occupational Therapy`Another excellent book in the Living with Serious Mental Illness series. Deals with medication, carers' tales and mental health assessment.' -- Pendulum, newsletter of the Manic Depressive Fellowship`This is a book which `has been waiting to be written'. How many people are frustrated by their inability to use the Mental Health Act 1983 and protect family members suffering from the effects of untreated or ineffectively treated schizophrenia. This book gives us knowledge and understanding of the act which in its turn gives us the confidence to use it, to quote from it, to make demands. The book uses real life case studies, discusses whether mental health assessments were used, and if used, adequately, or not. Comments are then made by members of a group the Leap Group -an Essex based pressure group of consumers. The relevant sections of the Mental Health Act are quoted and clarified and other information which might help is supplied. The book closes with recommendations as to how the system might be improved. There is a glossary of words and phrases which may be new to people first finding out about schizophrenia and a list of useful names and addresses.' -- Newsletter of the Schizophrenia Association of Great Britain`There is much of relevance in the book to members of Making Space and to our staff. I liked the format because it enables people affected by these problems to identify with the case studies and so understand better the background to professional decisions. It is an excellent base for training. It should prove extremely useful for carers and is sympathetic to user concerns.' -- Making SpaceTable of ContentsPreface. 1. Mental health assessments: an introduction. 2. Slipping out of the system. 3. A `least restrictive' practice. 4. The role of medication in acute psychosis. 5. Slipping into the wrong system. 6. Carers and a need for caring. 7. A reluctance to use the law? 8. Mental health assessments: summing up. Further reading. Useful addresses. Glossary. Index.

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Book SynopsisResearch indicates that at least one in ten new mothers experience post-natal depression, yet there is little help available to sufferers. Cara Aiken's book will help them, and the professionals who work with them, to understand this illness. The book tells the stories of ten women from very different backgrounds - including the author - who have suffered post-natal depression. Their stories, told honestly and informally, will be a source of strength and hope for other sufferers. The book will also raise awareness of the illness and the destructive effect it can have on individuals and families. It offers positive suggestions and practical advice, based on personal and professional experience. It is a fresh, honest and positive book which will help professionals to understand post-natal depression and will be an invaluable resource for the many mothers who experience it.Trade Review`The author of this collection herself suffered from post-natal depression, and it was her own experiences that led her to put together this collection of stories.Ten women (including the author) have related their personal stories of how post-natal depression affected their own and their families lives. A further chapter is devoted to discussions with some of the partners of the women who contributed their stories to the book. This book would make insightful reading for professionals who work with sufferers of post-natal depression as well as anyone who has experienced it.' -- Family Matters`Cara Aiken was one of the one in ten new mothers who have to cope with Surviving Post Natal Depression. She tells her own and other stories, and offers suggestions and advice based on personal and professional experience.' -- Church Times`This book tells the stories of 10 women who have all suffered from postnatal depression (PND). The women draw on their personal experiences to offer practical advice. This approach offers real insight into the disease and its ramifications for the whole family… I recommend this book to anyone with a professional or personal interest in this debilitating disease.' -- Cheryll Adams - Professional office/research and practice development`This is a very useful book, written in a clear, easy to follow style, making it advisable both for doctors and all those working in general medicine, to obstetricians and, of course, midwives.' -- European Journal of Psychiatry`I found these stories very moving and enthralling in the way they painted the full horror and dreariness of depression. Consideration is also given to the plight of new fathers who sometimes suffer depression either from the effect of coping with depression in their partner or independently. There are contributions from a psychiatrist, a health visitor and the founder of the Association for Post-Natal Illness. These explain the full range of problems that fall under the umbrella term "post-natal depression" and that treatment needs to be geared to the particular problems of the patient. Finally there is an attempt to draw the threads together and give advice and hope to others.' -- PendulumTable of ContentsForewords, by Ian Brockington and Denise Welch. Preface. Introduction. 1. Cara. 2. Rosemary. 3. Jane. 4. Julie. 5. Pippa. 6. Laura. 7. Gail. 8. Jenny. 9. Sarah. 10. Veritee. 11. Summary/Analysis. 12. The other half. 13. Post-natal illness: The professional view. 14. Practical advice and conclusions. 15. The myth of perfect mothering. 16. Light at the end of the tunnel. Help addresses. References. Index.

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Book Synopsis`This handbook planned for carer's will offer relatives and friends with noteworthy organizational health care information. It will also help guide carer's regarding the key roles, and the functions of support agencies that are seen as crucial elements when planning and seeking alternative care interventions…This book aims to provide carers with basic facts and the confidence to deal more effectively with their role.'- The International Journal of Psychiatric Nursing ResearchThis is an essential resource for all people caring for family members or friends with mental illness. Written by experts, Mental Illness: A Handbook for Carers provides basic information on:* forms of mental illness* treatment plans* what to do in an emergency* the role of mental health professionals and other agencies* legal issues and confidentiality* housing, work and benefits.Mental Illness examines the provision made for people with mental illness and their carers, and the support that is available to them. It includes information on housing, employment, social services and the law. The writers avoid jargon, and the book includes a glossary of terms with which carers may be unfamiliar. Accessible, practical and comprehensive, this handbook acts as a one-stop shop for anyone caring for a person with a mental illness.Table of ContentsIntroduction. Section One: Mental Illnesses. 1. Schizophrenia and Related Disorders, Elizabeth Kuipers, Professor of Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry. 2. Bipolar Affective Disorder or Manic Depression, Rosalind Ramsay and George Szmukler. 3. Depression, Anne Farmer, Institute of Psychiatry. 4. Anxiety Disorders, Susan Grey, Institute of Psychiatry. 5. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Richard Parkin, Consultant Psychologist. 6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Felicity de Zuleta, Institute of Psychiatry. 7. Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms, Alicia Deale and Vincent Deary. 8. Mental Health Problems alongside Physical Illness, Andrew Hodgkiss, Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 9. Eating Disorders, Gill Todd, Clinical Nurse Leader, Eating Disorders Unit, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, Wendy Whitaker and Kay Gavan. 10. Drinking Problems, Jane Marshall, Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 11. Drug Misuse and Dependence, Claire Gerada and Sarah Welsh, Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 12. Personality Disorders, Jane Tiller, Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 13. Mental Illness in Older People, Amanda Thompsell, Specialist Registrar in Psychiatry, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust and Marisa Silverman, Old Age Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. Section Two: Mental Health Services. Introduction, Frank Holloway, Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 14. Mental Health Services, Sonia Johnson, Senior Lecturer in Social and Community Psychiatry, University College, London. 15. Mental Health Professionals, Wendy Maphosa and Emma Staples. 16. Primary Care Services for Mental Health, Claire Gerada. 17. Social Work Provision, Nick Hervey, Southwark Social Services. 18. An Appropriate Place to Live, John Wade and Claire Henderson, Institute of Psychiatry. 19. Benefits, Claire Henderson, Institute of Psychiatry and Rory O'Kelly. 20. Employment, David O'Flynn, Specialist Registrar in Psychiatry. 21. Forensic Psychiatry, Alec Buchanan, Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist, South London and Maudlsey Trust. 22. Mental Health Legislation, Frank Holloway, Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust and George Szmuckler. 23. Driving and Mental Health, Anne Cremona, Consultant Psychiatrist, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 24. Other Legal Issues and Mental Health, Mind legal unit. 25. Confidentiality and Mental Health, George Szmukler. 26. How to Cope with the Stigma of Mental Illness, Geoffrey Woolf, Consultant Psychiatrist. 27. Ethnic Minorities and Mental Health, Kwame McKenzie. 28. Being a Carer, Kate Harvey. 29. Psychological Treatments, Anne Ward and Stirling Moorey, Consultant Psychiatrists, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. 30. Suicide and Suicide Attempts, Mike Crawford, Senior Lecturer, Imperial College School of Medicine, London. 31.Violence, Mari Anne Harty, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust. Glossary. Resources. The Contributors. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe application of systemic ideas and principles in working with people with intellectual disabilities, their families and their service systems, has grown over the last decade in the UK. This book, for the first time, brings together the writings of a group of practitioners who have been using this approach in their clinical practice. It is hoped it will inspire others to try out different ways of working with people with intellectual disabilities and their wider systems, so that they can have the choice of a wide range of therapeutic approaches. It is also hoped that systemic practitioners who are unfamiliar with this client group might give consideration to extend their practice to also work with people with intellectual disabilities.Trade Review'This book feels like a big step toward solidarity. It is freeing that the book carefully turns our usual descriptions of 'them' to describing and including 'us'. Yes, this is a book of inclusion and it holds the ambition that all those who have not had speaking voices and therefore not been heard, now shall be given that possibility.' - Tom Andersen, Tromso, Norway

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Book SynopsisMental health nursing has always been susceptible to modification due to, for example, new treatments and changing demands by society. This timely book examines the current status of mental health nursing and the role that this discipline plays in the social control of the 'mad'.Controversially, the author recommends that mental health nursing should exploit its social control function by re-establishing its traditional allegiance to medical psychiatry. However, the author suggests also that a minority of mental health nurses may wish to become part of a radical force aimed at achieving genuine empowerment for the mentally disordered.Table of ContentsThe Professions in Society. The Profession of Meicine. Nursing as a profession. Mental Health Nursing. Case Study - Design on The Project. Case study - Results and Discussion. Case Study - Implications.

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Book SynopsisIn a Victorian-era German asylum, seamstress Agnes Richter painstakingly stitched a mysterious autobiographical text into every inch of the jacket she created from her institutional uniform. Despite every attempt to silence them, hundreds of other patients have managed to get their stories out, at least in disguised form, and so it continues today. A vast gulf exists between the way medicine explains psychiatric illness and the experiences of those who suffer. Hornstein's brilliant work helps us to bridge that gulf, guiding us through the inner lives of those diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar illness, depression, and paranoia and emerging with nothing less than a new model for understanding so-called 'mental illness', one another and ourselves. One which asks not 'what's wrong with you' but 'what happened to you and how did you manage to survive?'Trade Review"Reading Agnes's Jacket changed the course of my life. In this book Gail Hornstein undertakes a remarkable investigation into the experiences of people who - like me - have found themselves caught up in the 'mad world' of mental illness. In this compelling account of a personal quest spanning centuries and continents, seeking to better comprehend what it is to go mad, Gail Hornstein connects us to a whole new world of hitherto hidden networks, radical voices and marvellous stories of survival, recovery and beyond. Mental illness can be a profoundly isolating experience. Since discovering Agnes's Jacket I know that I am part of a growing global community of people - either 'experts by experience or experts by profession' - who push forward towards a more humane and hopeful understanding of the meanings of madness." Bobby Baker, author of 'Diary Drawings', Mind Book of the Year 2011 "An amazing psychological adventure story. Hornstein, an academic psychologist with the skills of a first-rate journalist, enters the world of the truly 'mad' and comes out with profound lessons about her profession and herself." Barbara Ehrenreich "It would be difficult to over-praise this book. Beautifully written, combining intellectual rigour with the tension of a detective story, it uses historical and modern material to document the struggles and opposition faced by those called mad who simply wish to tell their own stories. A superb addition to the increasing number of critiques of the medicalisation of distress." Mary Boyle "Compelling and beautifully done." Susie Orbach "An insightful and eloquent exploration of the subjective experiences of madness. The curiosity and wisdom of the author illuminates our understanding of the complex mysteries of the human condition." Jacqui DillonTable of ContentsA new introduction by the author for the UK edition 1. The Voice Hearer 2. Beyond Belief 3. The Network 4. Mavericks in Maastricht 5. Who's Crazy Now? 6. Freedom Centre 7. Prisoner Abuse 8. He might be Houdini 9. Field Notes 10. Peter, who comes from Jesus 11. Philosophy of a Lunatic 12. Whitsbury House 13. Experts by Experience 14. Secrets and Hostages 15. Train Tracks 16. Free Speech 17. Trauma and Testimony 18. Displaced Persons 19. The Mental Market 20. Hunger Strikers 21. The Late Quartets 22. Hidden in Plain Sight 23. Visions Wrapped in Riddles 24. Written on the Body 25. The Wounds does the Healing 25. Finding What Works and What Doesn't Acknowledgements Notes Resources Index

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Book SynopsisThe 'Our Encounters with - ' series collect together unnmediated, unsanitised narratives by service-users, past service-users and carers. These stories of direct experience will be of great benefit to those interested in narrative enquiry, and to those studying and practising in the field of mental health. The collection bring together a range of voices on the theme of suicide - those who have been suicidal, along side the friends, family and staff who have lived and worked with them. Too often the rhetoric of 'suicidology' is occupied only by those who have never had personal experience of suicidality. The first-person voice is strangely absent. These frank accounts go some way to correcting the balance. We hope that these narratives will be helpful for people who may have had similar encounters, or are harbouring future suicidal intentions, and for those who care for them personally or professionally; that readers can use the stories in the book to make better sense of their own experiences and decisions.Ultimately we hope that the book will facilitate a more empathic understanding of the experiences of others generally, and of people who were close to and have been lost to suicide.Trade ReviewOur encounters with Suicide is a book which should be compulsory reading for anyone who comes into contact with people who have been affected by suicide. These personal stories told with such inspiring honesty and deep sense of humanity enlighten some very difficult issues. They hold out some powerful truths which we all should listen to in how we live our lives personally and professionally. Paul Jenkins, Chief Executive, Rethink Mental Illness This deeply moving and provocative book gives voice to one of society's ancient and contemporary least understood enigmas. For the reader the stories captured within this volume highlight the strength and endurance of the human spirit in the face of both existential and neurotic suffering. These expert narratives teach us that true experiential knowledge is gained in the swampy low lands and understood through reflection in and on action. This book speaks to anyone that considers themselves to be engaged in the act of becoming human. We rise by that from which we fall. Dawn Freshwater, Professor of Mental Health and Psychotherapist.Table of ContentsContents Forewords Professor Gillian Bendelow and Dr Katherine Johnson 1 Introduction Alec Grant, Judith Haire, Brendan Stone Witnessing suicide 2 Violent impact Karl Davis In the wake of suicide 3 Pamela Pamela Kirk 4 Phillipa Phillipa Brook 5 A lesson learned all too well, perhaps? Stacey Autote 6 From sisterhood to suicide: The story of a suicide loss Cath Walsh 7 Untitled Catherine Carley 8 Gone but not forgotten Georgina Smith 9 Untitled Alex 10 Suicidal wisdom Jayne Stewart 11 Pepe Karen McDonald 12 Living on the edge Abigal Muchecheti 13 The other half Jo Rhodes 14 D Gilly Graham 15 A lifetime changed in a moment Neil Ritchie 16 Self portrait Lost Soul Thinking suicide 17 My father's war Sid Prise 18 Choosing to be Ruth Kilner 19 The ultimate barrier - for all those who never made it back Tessa Glaze 20 Semi-suicidal Helen Harrop 21 Untitled Naomi Surviving suicide 22 Suicide - my story Anonymous 23 The secrets of suicide Dawn Willis 24 The suicide not is not my story (or the suicide note does not play my song) Dolly Sen 25 Phoenix to ashes Madame de Merteuil 26 The day I went to the meadow Felicity Stennett 27 'Con Hearse' Kathryn 28 "The silence of suicide" Michael Skinner Defending suicide 29 In defense of suicide Kathryn Rosenfeld 30 A red sadness: My Dad's Story Chrissie Hinde 31 An epilogue: suicide and sense making Alec Grant Appendices Contributors Bibliography

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Book SynopsisThe 'Our Encounters with - ' series collect together unnmediated, unsanitised narratives by service-users, past service-users and carers. These stories of direct experience will be of great benefit to those interested in narrative enquiry, and to those studying and practising in the field of mental health. This collection brings together a range of voices on the theme of self-harm - from those who have experienced self-harm directly, alongside the friends, family and staff who live and work with self-harm. Too often, our understanding of the unique and complex experiences of people who self-harm is limited to concepts of mental illness, disorder and disease. Yet these stories demonstrate the strength, survival and recovery of people with rich and diverse lives. Inspiring, hopeful and at times challenging to read, the contributors who have so generously shared their experiences in this book will promote understanding and compassion, improve attitudes and care, and offer hope to those who are personally encountering self-harm.In this respect, this book is of immense value to all those working with self-harm across a spectrum of services and roles, and to those living with self-harm.Trade ReviewI was challenged, shocked, enlightened, outraged and at times deeply moved by the narratives in this kook. I thought I 'knew' about self-harm; this book was a forceful reminder that each person's experience of self-harm is unique and different. What came across most powerfully was the importance of listening and trying to understand what the person's self-harming means to them. It is not an easy read and at times I had to pause for breath or to wipe away tears. It incorporates narratives, poems, reflections and thoughts about self-harm by people who have self-harmed and by family, friends and professionals. The most powerful voices are those of the people who have self-harmed or are still self-harming. Most narratives end with a personal reflection on how the contributor views their own story and the messages they would like to convey to professionals and/ or others in their own or similar positions. I cannot recommend this book enough. Written with honesty and dignity, these accounts bear witness to the sometimes monstrous failings of services ostensibly set up to offer help and support. It invites - even demands of its readers that they examine their own attitudes and practices towards self-harm honestly, without defensiveness. But the accounts also offer a message of hope and reflections on what can make a difference. Jackie Townsend, counsellor and supervisor in Therapy Today, April 2014

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Book SynopsisThis book presents accounts of the practice of the person-centred approach (PCA) with people suffering from a range of severe and enduring conditions. Comprehensively refuting the notion that person-centred therapy is suitable only for the 'worried well', it backs up contemporary practice with appropriate theory. For students, academic and professional audiences. Contributions include: Person-centred therapy with post-traumatic stress (Stephen Joseph and David Murphy); Tenuous contact - Person-centred therapy with adolescent process (Peter Pearce and Ros Sewell); Pre-Therapy with psychotic clients (Dion van Werde); Refutation of myths of inappropriateness of person-centered therapy at the difficult edge (Lisbeth Sommerbeck); Difficult processes (Margaret Warner) and several other chapters from leading theorists and practitioners.Trade ReviewIntelligent, skilled, inspiring therapists offer chapters that teach us not only how to be therapists working with those at the 'difficult edge' but how to be better therapists with all our clients. This book gives us deep understanding of often misunderstood clients and the therapist's inner dialogue in connecting with them. Charles O'Leary, author of The Practice of Person-Centred Couple and Family Therapy;This book identifies the challenges of contact with certain client groups and particular 'difficult edges'. Throughout, the contributors hold the notion of empathy as a guiding light; both explicitly and implicitly documenting the profound impact of understanding and acceptance on others and self. Sheila Haugh, Associate Lecturer, Prague College of Psychosocial Studies, Czech Republic; Lecturer, Metanoia Institute, London, UK;... I feel this book has much to offer both the experienced person-centred practitioner, the student exploring a wider application of person-centred therapy, as well as practitioners from other modalities wishing to find out more... I strongly recommend you read it ofr yourself in its entirely! Reviewed in BAPCA's Person-Centred Quarterly, November 2014 by Claire Thomas;This is for me a joyful book, in that it recognisis and celebrates the effectiveness of person-centred practice in areas that may traditionally have been the preserve of psychiatry, or focused on stabilisation and support rather than the facilitation of growth. Mike Gallant, Senior Teaching Fellow (Counselling & Psychotherapy), Warwick University. Reviewed in Therapy Today, December 2014Table of ContentsPart 1: Practice1 Understanding posttraumatic stress and facilitating posttraumatic growth David Murphy and Stephen Joseph2 Person-centred therapy with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse Jan Hawkins3 Person-centred therapy with people with learning disabilities: Happy people wear hats Jan Hawkins4 'Tenuous contact': New theory about adolescent process Peter Pearce and Ros Sewell 5 Pre-Therapy at its edges: From palliative care to exercising newly recoveredcontact functioning Dion Van Werde 6 Combining person-centred therapy and Pre-Therapy with clients at the difficult edge Lisbeth Sommerbeck 7 A person-centred approach to counselling clients with autistic process Anja Rutten 8 Person-centred therapy for people with dementia Danuta Lipinska 9 Pre-Therapy and dementia - the opportunity to put Person-Centred theory into everyday practice Penny Dodds, Pamela Bruce-Hay and Sally Stapleton Part 2: Conceptualisations that support practice 10 Client processes at the difficult edge Margaret Warner 11 The relation between intersubjectivity, imitation, mirror neurons, empathy and Pre-Therapy Hans Peters 12 Refutation of myths of inappropriateness of person-centred therapy at the difficult edge Lisbeth SommerbeckPart 3: Research that supports practice 14 An investigation of the effectiveness of person-centred therapy for 'psychotic' processes in adult clients Wendy Traynor 15 Pre-Therapy process and outcome: A review of research instruments and findings Mathias Dekeyser, Garry Prouty and Robert Elliott

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Book SynopsisWhat is it like to suffer from depression? As Li Lanni writes, it's worse than cancer. A child of China's Cultural Revolution, Li Lanni has always persevered through hardship. Despite her many health struggles, including cancer, Lanni went through life with a smile on her face--until she was diagnosed with depression in 2003. This powerful memoir, told in part through diary entries written soon after her diagnosis, follows the extraordinary story of her life, from her upbringing on communist military bases to her coming of age in the high-pressure, freewheeling commercial centre of Shenzhen. At once deeply personal and profoundly universal, this story of cancer and mental illness captures the life and times of a generation struggling for health and happiness in a rapidly changing China.

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Book SynopsisSince 2008, the government’s Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme has been rolled out across England and Wales. In the 10 years of its existence it has transformed primary care mental health services and changed the landscape of counselling and psychotherapy across the UK. While IAPT services provide therapy to thousands of people experiencing depression and anxiety, they also absorb millions of pounds in government funding. This has resulted in wholesale cuts to numerous voluntary sector and GP-attached counselling services run by qualified and experienced counsellors and psychotherapists. Current plans to expand the reach of IAPT to 25% of need (NHS Five-Year Forward Plan) rely on an economic model of treatment that has more in common with the principles of Henry Ford than with those of either Rogers or Freud. This book, with chapters written by experienced therapists, psychiatrists and academics, unravels and exposes the neoliberal roots from which the IAPT programme sprang. It scrutinises the tightly regulated, manualised and medicalised therapies offered in IAPT, the constant surveillance under which its practitioners work and the dehumanising effects of this on clients and therapists alike. It also offers an in-depth cost-benefit analysis of IAPT’s published outcomes, challenging the well-publicised claim that IAPT pays for itself by cutting the national welfare benefits bill and returning depressed and anxious people to work. Meanwhile, with therapists working on performance-rated, short-term and self-employed contracts, often in professional isolation with inadequate management and supervision support, the book exposes the difficulties, frustrations and hardships experienced by those on the front line of mental health services. Together, the contributors question whether and to what extent the IAPT `factory’ system of care, driven by psychiatric diagnosis, fast through-put and quick-win `outcomes’, can really provide a solution to Britain’s growing mental health crisis.Table of ContentsForeword - Nikolas Rose; Introduction, The modern myths of IAPT - Rosemary Rizq; Part 1: the State we’re in; 1. Neoliberalism: what it is and why it matters - Philip Thomas; 2. The industrialisation and marketisation of healthcare - Penny Campling; 3. Health services without care: throwing good money after bad - Marianna Fotaki; 4. Positive affect as coercive strategy: the role of psychology in UK government workfare programmes - Lynne Friedli and Robert Stearn; 5. CBT’s integration into societal networks of power - Michael Guilfoyle; Part 2: The state of the NHS; 6. IAPT and the flawed ideology of diagnosis - Sami Timimi; 7. IAPT, power and professional self-interest - Andy Rogers; 8. Why the economics of IAPT don’t add up - Scott Steen; Part 3: The state of the workplace; 9. Perverting the course of therapy: IAPT and the fetishisation of governance - Rosemary Rizq; 10. The industrial relations of mental health - Elizabeth Cotton; 11. At what cost? The impact of IAPT on third sector psychological therapy provision - Jude Boyles and Norma McKinnon Fathi; 12. Industrialising relational therapy: ethical conflicts and threats for counsellors in IAPT - Gillian Proctor and Maeta Brown

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Book SynopsisIncreasingly, counsellors and psychotherapists are working with people who have been diagnosed with a mental disorder and are required to understand and navigate the mental health system. Counselling training rarely covers the fields of psychiatry and mental disorder in detail and there are few reliable resources on which they can draw. This comprehensive guide to psychiatry and the mental health system, written by a psychiatrist and counsellor, aims to fill that gap. The book is intended for counsellors and psychotherapists but will be helpful to others in the mental health field. It explains the organisation and delivery of mental health services in the UK, the theories and concepts underpinning the practice of psychiatry, the medical model of psychiatric diagnosis and treatment, the main forms of mental disorder, how to work therapeutically with people with a diagnosed mental disorder and how to work with risk of suicide and self-harm. The text is designed to support continuing professional development and training and includes activities, points for learning/discussion and comprehensive references.Trade Review'Freeth's contribution is significant. This book is vast, authoritative, relevant and challenging, while written with warmth and a lightness of touch drawing on words embedded in a depth of practice and compassion.' - Dr Andrew Reeves, Associate Professor in the Counselling Professions and Mental Health.Table of ContentsPart I - Contexts and culture. 1 Mental health services: their organisation, role and remit. Part II - Theoretical and conceptual foundations. 2 Concepts of health, illness, disease and disorder. 3 Models of mental disorder. 4 Psychiatric assessment. 5 Psychiatric diagnosis. 6 Psychiatric drugs. 7 Legal aspects of psychiatry and mental healthcare. 8 Ethical issues in psychiatry and mental healthcare. Part III - Forms of mental disorder. 9 Psychotic disorders. 10 Depressive disorders. 11 Bipolar disorder. 12 Anxiety disorders. 13 Personality disorders. 14 Eating disorders. 15 Dissociative disorders. Part IV - Clinical practice. 16 Working with clients with a psychiatric diagnosis. 17 Working with clients experiencing psychosis. 18 Working with clients who self-harm. 19 Working suicide risk. 20 Working with clients taking psychiatric drugs. 21 Spiritual and religious dimensions of mental disorder. Part V - The resourceful counsellor. 22 Supervision. 23 Self-care.

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Book SynopsisIn an era when more people are taking psychiatric drugs than ever before, Joanna Moncrieff's explosive book challenges the claims for their mythical powers. Drawing on extensive research, she demonstrates that psychiatric drugs do not 'treat' or 'cure' mental illness by acting on hypothesised chemical imbalances or other abnormalities in the brain. There is no evidence for any of these ideas. Moreover, any relief the drugs may offer from the distress and disturbance of a mental disorder can come at great cost to people's physical health and their ability to function in day-to-day life. And, once on these drugs, coming off them can be very difficult indeed. This book is a wake-up call to the potential damage we are doing to ourselves by relying on chemical cures for human distress. Its clear, concise explanations will enable people to make a fully informed decision about the benefits and harms of these drugs and whether and how to come off them if they so choose.Trade Review'This is a brilliant book. It offers an incisive, clear and evidence based appraisal of psychiatric drugs, arriving at just the right time to counter the growing controversy and confusion in this area. I could not think of a more respected and credible guide to take us through this tricky terrain. This book should be compulsory reading for anyone working in mental health. I would also recommend it for anyone holding a more personal interest in the subject.' - Dr James Davies, Reader in Social Anthropology & Mental Health, University of Roehampton, and author of Cracked: why psychiatry is doing more harm than good. 'There has never been a greater need for calm and reasoned thinking about psychiatric drug use, and, as a practising and open-minded psychiatrist, Joanna is the very best person to provide it. This book brings evidence and rationality to a contentious topic and offers people sound, researchbased information and genuine choice.' - Dr Lucy Johnstone, consultant clinical psychologist, author of A Straight Talking Introduction to Psychiatric Diagnosis and lead co-author of The Power Threat Meaning FrameworkTable of ContentsIntroduction, 1. The place of drug treatment in psychiatry, 2. How do psychiatric drugs work?, 3. The importance of research , 4. Antipsychotic drugs , 5. Antidepressants, 6. Lithium and other drugs used for bipolar disorder, 7. Stimulants, 8. Benzodiazepines, 9. Withdrawing from psychiatric drugs, 10. When might psychiatric drugs be useful? , 11. How did we get here and where do we go with it?, Appendix, Indexes

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Book SynopsisHearing voices, seeing visions and similar out-of-the-ordinary experiences have long intrigued and mystified humankind. The dominant scientific and medical understandings of these phenomena tend to problematise them. This ground-breaking book builds on the work of the Hearing Voices Movement and of the researchers Marius Romme and Sandra Escher in challenging this perception. The book is a collection of chapters by voice hearers, mental health professionals and researchers describing a myriad of therapeutic and creative approaches and strategies that people find helpful in relating to voices when they find them distressing. It is based on insights, understandings and knowledge derived from the first-hand experience of voice hearers and from mental health practice and research that show that the person's relationship with the voices and what the voices say are key to understanding and living with them; that voices are not in themselves a problem and can even be helpful; that there is a strong connection between voices and unwanted emotions; that life-long medication is not the inevitable and only treatment and, most importantly perhaps, that voice hearers can live well with their voices (even if it is sometimes hard work). The book is presented in three parts: Part one, 'Hearing our voices', includes voice hearers' perspectives as to what has helped them to recover from breakdown so that they are able to live full lives, including Hearing Voices Groups and peer support. Part two, 'Emerging social and therapeutic approaches to working with voices', explores different mainstream non-medical and psychotherapeutic approaches that help voice hearers to make sense of and live well with their voices. Part three, 'Creative approaches to working with voices', describes using creative arts, such as dance, drama and poetry, to help voice hearers relate to their voices in positive ways.Table of ContentsForeword - Marius Romme and Sandra Escher; Introduction - Isla Parker, Joachim Schnackenberg and Mark Hopfenbeck; Part one: Hearing our voices; 1. The Maastricht Approach: social and personal perspectives on hearing voices - Dirk Corstens; 2. Hearing voices: why the words we use matter - Akiko Hart; 3. Hearing voices groups - Peter Bullimore; 4. Facilitating hearing voices groups - Sasha Priddy and Charlotte Howard; 5. Painting has helped me to cope with my voices - Reshma Valliappan; 6. Voices: victim to victor - Ron Coleman; 7. The things they say - Aimee Wilson; 8. Journey to recovery - Clifford O'Connor; 9. Hearing voices in grief - Jacqueline Hayes; 10. Spirituality, religion and voices - Christopher C.H. Cook; 11. Voice hearing and cannabis: a harm-reduction approach - Rufus May and Kate Quinn; 12. Black voices and the deafness of whiteness - Colin King; Part two - Emerging social and therapeutic approaches to working with voices; 13. Voices, values and values-based practice: engaging with what matters in voice hearing - David Crepaz-Keay and Bill (K.W.M.) Fulford; 14. An invitation to dialogue: what we can all learn from Open Dialogue and Hearing Voices Networks - Olga Runciman and Iseult Twamley; 15. Medication and voices: reflections from a relational perspective - Dirk Corstens and Joachim Schnackenberg; 16. Voice hearers at work - Caroline Moughton; 17. Navigating university as a voice hearer - Deborah Altman; 18. Experience focused counselling (Making sense of voices) - Joachim K. Schnackenberg, Oana-Mihaela Iusco and Senait Debesay; 19. Voice Dialogue - Ruth Lafferty and Rob Allison; 20. Experience focused counselling with children and young people who hear voices - Senait Debesay; 21. Understanding voices while living with dementia - David Storm and Ron Coleman; 22. How cognitive behaviour therapy can help people who are distressed by hearing voices - Mark Hayward; 23. Recovery-oriented cognitive therapy and distressing voices - Aaron Brinen; 24. AVATAR therapy: a digital therapy to help people with distressing voices - Mar Rus-Calafell and Tom Craig; 25. Relating therapy for voices: learning how to respond assertively in difficult relationships - Mark Hayward, Sheila Evenden and Angie Culham; 26. Meaning-making in voice hearing - Nicola Barclay, Guy Dodgson, and Anna Luce; 27. Responding to trauma dialogically: an introduction to peer-supported Open Dialogue - Mark Hopfenbeck; 29. A psychodynamic understanding of voice hearing - Christine Cox; 29. Compassion-focused therapy and the courage of compassionate relating to voices - Charles Heriot-Maitland; 30. Working with voices using the narrative genogram - Lykourgos Karatzaferis; 31. Mindfulness and hearing voices - Rufus May and Elisabeth Svanholmer; Part three - Creative approaches to working with voices; 32. Creative ways to engage with voices - Rufus May and Elisabeth Svanholmer; 33. Dramatherapy for people who hear voices - Louise Combes; 34. Dance movement psychotherapy and voice hearing: looking outward and inward - Mary Coaten; 35. Awesome metalcore therapy: using heavy metal music in therapeutic work with voices - Kate Quinn and Daniel Baines; 36. A safe space: sound therapy and hearing voices - Jane Ford; 37. How writing memoirs and poetry may help voice hearers - Isla Parker; 38. Music therapy in multi-disciplinary treatment - Stella Compton Dickinson; Conclusion - Isla Parker, Joachim Schnackenberg and Mark Hopfenbeck; Afterword - Gail A. Hornstein

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Book SynopsisThis fully revised and updated edition of Learning Disability Today provides an accessible and thought-provoking introduction to some of the key issues in the lives of people with learning disabilities and the practice of those who support them. Learning Disability Today was first published in 2007 to meet the need for a handbook which, while well-grounded in latest research and practice, was accessible for staff occupying many roles, such as support workers and managers in learning disability service settings, community learning disability teams and professionals who may find themselves supporting a person with an intellectual disability from time to time, families and voluntary supporters, as well as students of learning disability/intellectual disability. It has continued to be a highly successful title, and has been published in three previous editions over the past nine years. This new, fourth edition is a complete revision, aiming to address key knowledge requirements, challenges and concerns for people working in the field and provide opportunities for reflection and continuing professional development. The content is illustrated throughout by case studies to help the reader explore how best to address issues in practice.Table of ContentsSection 1: It's my life Positive Behavioural Support Communication From advocacy to involvement to co-production and back again Sexuality and Relationships Education for people with learning disabilities Section 2: Staying healthy Health promotion and supporting people to access health services Physical health Mental Health Section 3: Topical issues Dementia in people with learning disability Autism Supporting People with Profound and Multiple Disabilities End of life care Section 4: Staying safe Safeguarding Adults with Learning Disabilities: What is abuse? Safeguarding Adults with Learning Disabilities: What to do and how to prevent abuse Positive risk-taking: Supporting people with learning disabilities to live a life like any other Hate Crime: crime against disabled people People with learning disabilities in the Criminal Justice System

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Book SynopsisDiagnosis of learning disabilities or autism can happen at any point in an individual's life. While this should mean freedom to move forward with information to access all that's needed to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, the huge obstacles that exist in reality can make a diagnosis a cause for dismay. Furthermore, the way in which the diagnosis is delivered is often done without thought or preparation and consequently ensures lasting emotional trauma to the individuals involved and their loved ones. The aim of this thought-provoking booklet is to directly challenge the method and moment a diagnosis is given, so that it can become the defining opportunity to set individuals and their families off on a positive, hopeful path rather than a negative, diminished one. Each 'rule' speaks powerfully with the voice of the individual or family on the receiving end of diagnosis. Together, the 10 rules provide a useful starting point for discussion and a catalyst for action. Each is followed by suggestions for positive practices. The booklet also contains additional background information on good practice, together with references and sources of further information. The booklet has been written for anyone involved in providing diagnoses and follow-up support to autistic people, those with learning disabilities and their families, together with allied professionals, carers and student in relevant disciplines. It can be used for a wide range of purposes, including staff induction, learning disability and autism awareness training, individual professional development and reflection, and team discussions about the quality of practice and services provided.

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Book SynopsisWe all share identical properties that mark us out as human beings. Even so, every person is unique: we are not clones. It’s the same with depression - or perhaps more properly the depressions (plural) – because they manifest in so many different ways and under different circumstances yet in essence remain the same. This is a simple enough observation, yet there appears to be little understanding of the condition – or conditions - among the general public, who tend to lump together all states of ‘feeling miserable’ into something to be snapped out of, a disease category to be treated medically, or a feebleness of personality to be disapproved of and dismissed. In this new title from Wyn Bramley, many different views on causation and treatment are explored. The emphasis is on real people’s experiences from all aspects of the depressions – sufferers, helpers, family and friends – not a self-help work but an all-encompassing aid to understanding this common condition.

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Book SynopsisOriginally entitled 'Mental Health Needs of Children and Young People with Learning Disabilities', this new edition focuses on the care and support of those with moderate and severe intellectual disabilities. In addition to bringing the content fully up to date, the editors, both longstanding experts in this field, have commissioned the most experienced contributors from relevant disciplines to address topics such as forensic issues and risk assessment, transition and functional analysis. The importance of developing evidence-based practice is a key theme of the book, acknowledging its key role in helping professionals and practitioners to provide high-quality personalised care for children and young people with intellectual disabilities who have mental health needs. The book provides health and social care professionals with a sound knowledge base for shaping and enhancing their practice, along with the confidence to improve the outcomes for these young people. Each chapter includes short case illustrations, examples of good practice, reflections on current practice, key learning points, references and key websites for further exploration.Table of ContentsContents: Section one - Prevalence, Legal and Cultural Issues Epidemiology; aetiology; Mental Health Act; mental capacity; forensic issues; safeguarding; cultural Issues; gender Issues Section two - Assessment and Diagnostic Issues Psychiatric conditions; psychological issues; functional analysis; speech and language therapy perspective; occupational therapy perspective Section three - Interventions and Services Psychological and behavioural interventions; pharmacology; service provision; education; transitions

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Book SynopsisTrauma informed approaches have not generally been made available to staff working in services supporting people who have both a personality disorder and an intellectual disability. This distinctive training manual enables facilitators who already have some level of understanding of psychodynamic concepts to help support staff better understand the people they care for in the context of their histories of trauma, and their own emotional and behavioural responses. It offers professionals who are called on to support services (psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, nurses, occupational therapists etc) a standardised way of training and educating care staff in thinking about how best to provide support and a safe and supportive service to some of the most challenging clients. In doing so, it addresses contentious and challenging issues such as the terms 'personality disorder' and 'challenging behaviour', the traumatised carer and the difficulties of working competently with people who have complex emotional needs. Most importantly, it improves the understanding and confidence of staff in supporting their clients. The manual provides a course of three 2 hour sessions with guidelines and participant materials.Table of ContentsIntroduction Literature Review References Session 1 The skeleton The details Advanced groups Session 2 The skeleton The details Advanced groups Session 3 The skeleton The details Advanced groups Appendices

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Book SynopsisThe history of 'personality disorder' services is problematic to say the least. The very concept of 'personality disorder' is under heavy fire, services are often expensive and ineffective, and many service users report feeling that they have been lied to, stigmatised and excluded. Yet while there are inevitably challenges involved in working with a population that can be complex, demanding and destructive, creative networks of learning do exist - people who are striving to provide progressive, compassionate services for and with this client group. Working Effectively with 'Personality Disorder' shares this knowledge, articulating an alternative way of working that acknowledges the contemporary debate around diagnosis, reveals flawed assumptions underlying current approaches, and argues for services that work more positively, more holistically and with a wider, more socially focused agenda.Table of ContentsIntroduction SECTION 1: CONTEMPORARY AND CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON 'PERSONALITY DISORDER' 1. Life and Labels: Some Personal Thoughts about Personality Disorder (Sue Sibbald); 2. Personality Disorder: Breakdown in the Relational Field (Nick Benefield & Rex Haigh); 3. The Scale of the Problem (Sarah Skett and Kimberley Barlow); 4. The Politics of Personality Disorder: A Critical Realist Account (David Pilgrim); 5. The Importance of Personal Meaning (Sharon Prince & Sue Ellis); 6. The Organisation and its Discontents: In Search of the Fallible and 'Good Enough' Care Enterprise (Jina Barrett) SECTION 2: GOVERNANCE PRINCIPLES - SUPPORTING SERVICES TO ENACT CONTEMPORARY AND CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES 7. Access to Services: Moving Beyond Specialist Provision whilst Applying the Learning (Jo Ramsden); 8. Reimagining Interventions (Alan Hirons & Ruth Sutherland); 9. Service User Involvement and Co-production in Personality Disorder Services: An Invitation to Transcend Re-traumatising Power Politics (Melanie Ann Ball) ; 10. Partnership Working (David Harvey & Bernie Tuohy); 11. Outcomes (Mary McMurran); 12. Contained and Containing Teams (Jo Ramsden); 13. Co-produced 'Practice Near' Learning: Developing Critically Reflective Relational Systems (Neil Gordon)

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Book SynopsisOver the last 30 years, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased to become a widespread problem across the UK and worldwide. This book offers a comprehensive guide written by people with eating disorders, their families and leading researchers, clinicians and therapists, all aiming to improve understanding of practical ways of helping people with eating disorders to live and thrive in their communities. The handbook covers the important topics of understanding eating difficulties in our society's context, including the role of social media and the fashion industry, and how health care professionals and voluntary organisations currently support those with an eating disorder. It explores the value of exercise, nutrition and sleep, and considers support from parents and schools for children, as well as making reasonable accommodations for young people and adults in higher education and the workplace. Particular therapies for stabilisation and recovery are detailed, and a final section sets out examples of creative and arts-based approaches.Table of ContentsPart One: Understanding Eating Difficulties Part Two: Providing Healthcare for People with Eating Difficulties Part Three: Supporting People with Eating Difficulties Part Four: Therapies for Eating Difficulties Part Five: Creative Approaches to Eating Difficulties

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Book SynopsisThis ground-breaking handbook explores the nature of spirituality and its relevance to the mental health and well-being of people coming into contact with health, social care, education and allied support services. Incorporating the perspectives and experience of over 35 leading academics and practitioners in the field, the book offers a practical guide that includes the contemporary context, details of relevant demonstration projects and therapeutic interventions, and issues for services, staff, managers, leaders and trainers. Opportunities for reflection and practice pointers and offered throughout. The book pays due attention to the current climate of the covid-19 pandemic and the trauma and mental health needs linked to it (both for patients and staff), black and minority ethnic and trans-gender issues, and the voice of mental health experts by experience. Organized into thematic sections, it offers an update to previous publications in the field, including a consideration of spirituality and the new landscape going forwards.Table of ContentsForeword - Prof Jamie Hacker Hughes (neatly completed) Introduction (Where are we now?) 1. Introduction 2. Integrating Spirituality into Mental Health Services 3. African Psychology & Spiritness in Twin Pandemics 4. Finding Meaning and Purpose in a Covid World Across the Life Cycle 5. Children and Young People's Mental Health and Spirituality 6. Spirituality in an Older Generation 7. The Need for Spirituality in the Dying Process Therapeutic Practice 8. Assessing Spirituality 9. Spiritual Crises 10. Therapy for the Whole Person; integrating spirituality within therapy 11. Faith and Mental Health - the Intersection: How Faith Brought me to a Place of Some Wholeness. An Expert by Experience Perspective 12. Spirituality and Psychotherapy 13. Research and spirituality in mental health: Generating, interpreting, and disseminating evidence 14. Spiritual Competencies: Key Ways to Address Spirituality in Mental Health Care Themes & Journeys 15. Psychological and Christian Perspectives on Mental Health 16. Voices, Visions and the Spiritual Journey 17. Return to Eden... Two Journeys Spirituality, Services, Leadership and Training 18. Love and Leadership Leads to Conscious Caring 19. Coming at it Obliquely: Spiritual training for Healthcare Staff in an Age of Uncertainty 20. Compassionate Leadership for an Interconnected World 21. Burnout: A Spiritual Crisis, from Trauma to Transformation 22. Spiritual Care in General Practice 23. Beyond the Here and How - The Challenges for the Formal Mental Health System of Embracing Spiritually Informed Models of Care New Landscapes 24. Reflections on Race, Religion, and Well-Being 25. Ecology, Mental Health and Eco-spirituality 26. The Call of the New Spiritualities: The Unfolding Mysteries of the Universe and Consciousness 27. Beyond Separation: Transpersonal and Spiritual Approaches to Well-Being Conclusion & Reflections

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Book SynopsisWhat causes mental health problems? Nature or nurture? Brain and biology? Genetic inheritance or social environment? Revised and updated, this concise book explains what we know today about the origins of mental distress, drawing on the latest research from across the world. The answer is of course a bit of everything in combination - because the human body and brain are shaped by the environments we inhabit and what happens to us. Human distress is caused by loss, trauma, violence, childhood abuse, social injustices, poverty and deprivation. How well we are able to cope with these stressors likewise depends on a multiplicity of factors and is unique to each individual. An essential addition to the Straight Talking Introduction series, the book supports the call for more understanding of the social determinants of mental wellbeing. It adds to the arguments for treatments that do not rely on the busted hypothesis of neurochemical imbalances.Trade Review'An accessible look at complex issues that empowers the reader to start thinking for themselves. A refreshing antidote to the simplistic and pessimistic biomedical model.' - Jacqui Dillon, activist, writer, speaker and former Chair, Hearing Voices Network. 'Brilliantly engaging, understandable and thoughtful... will equip service users, carers and professionals alike with empowering knowledge.' - Tony Morrison, Professor of Clinical Psychology, University of Manchester. 'Perfect for the non-professional. Bought this book while studying level 2 counselling. It's well written and easy to understand, without all the technical jargon.' - Online reviewer. 'What causes mental health problems? Lots of things combining together. This book describes them, clearly and systematically, and how they interact.' - David Kingdon, Emeritus Professor of Mental Health Care Delivery, University of SouthamptonTable of ContentsSeries introduction - Richard Bentall and Pete Sanders, 1. Our beliefs and values, 2. A brief history of beliefs about the causes of human distress, 3. The 20th century and beyond: The illness model, 4. Do diagnoses help us understand causes?, 5. Public opinion: Depression is caused by depressing things happening, 6. What does the research say about the causes of mental health problems?, 7. Psychological theories: How events operate on us to create problems. 8. Putting things together: Formulating depression, 9. 2010-2022 and looking to the future: A call for action, Further reading and resources, Indices

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Book SynopsisThis powerful and disturbing book draws direct comparisons between the plight and fates of African slaves, dehumanised and discarded to sanitise Britain's trade in human lives and imperial ambitions, and the systemic 'othering' of people designated 'mad' throughout Western history. Drawing on contemporary historical records, Barham recounts, often in their own words, the stories of black people incarcerated in Kingston, Jamaica's lunatic asylum, poor white women similarly ejected into the British psychiatric system in the early 20th century for failing to live up to class and gender norms, and most shockingly, black men who have died at the hands of the police and mental health nurses in state custody and psychiatric detention. Endemic racism, greed, cruelty, exploitation and social control are writ large across this account that demands to be read by all those concerned for human rights, mad rights, Black lives and truth-telling about Britain's shameful colonial past and racist present.Trade Review'This book is hugely ambitious, hugely provocative and brilliant. For Peter Barham, madness is no side issue; he is talking about White supremacy, patriarchy and capitalism. He tracks 'the long fuse of traumatised memory' from the Caribbean to south Asia, and from western Europe to central Africa. And here's the rub - these ideologies that drive people mad are themselves mad. We are all in the 'hold' of these forces - across the constructed imaginaries of race, class, gender, sexuality and disability. Moving 'mad psychology' to the centre of the historical analysis of imperialisms, Barham adds his voice to the chorus of calls for a completely new therapeutic environment. Black people will want to read this book because it is grounded in the Black experience, and White people will want to read it too. All mad lives matter.' -- Colin Prescod, former Chair, Institute of Race Relations 'This is a welcome contribution to the discourse on 'race' and madness. Barham unpacks how power, 'race' and class - often overlooked in this discourse - intersect to maintain systems of racism that pervaded over the centuries. This book reminds us that systems of oppression affect us all and we should actively engage in dismantling them.' -- Frank Keating, Professor of Social Work and Mental Health, Royal Holloway University of London 'A challenging, but ultimately rewarding, deep dive into the long history of racism in mental health services. Outrageous Reason takes us on a unique journey, exploring the way that black lives and mad lives are deeply entangled in the collective imagination of British society. Barham's analysis is brought to life through the stories of some key Black figures whose fates have helped shape the current landscape. Disturbing and enlightening.' -- Hel Spandler, Professor of Mental Health, University of Central Lancashire and Managing Editor of Asylum: the radical mental health magazine 'At a time when the country is grappling with imperial nostalgia, fascism ideation and the impact of their consequent anti-blackness on the bodies and minds of people racialised as black, Outrageous Reason is a crucial undertaking. Not only to better understand their deadly intersections but also to imagine alternative forms of care.' -- Guilaine Kinouani, radical psychologist and author of White Minds 'This is a powerful and impassioned analysis of the history of mental health and race, but not as a clinical problem, as has been customary in psychiatric discourse. Instead, the author situates race and mental health within the historical trajectory of the politics of reason and unreason. Peter Barham's book charts how psychiatric concepts and practice served to inferiorise and dehumanise racialised people and served to justify their oppression from the times of transatlantic slavery right up to our present-day context of institutional racism.' -- Dr Errol Francis, Artistic Director and CEO of Culture 'How could I not be truly impressed by this thought-provoking exploration of the intricate relationship between madness, race and the history of Western reason? For a psychotherapist who relishes in case study and conversations about race and identity politics, Outrageous Reason is a compelling and indispensable resource. Barham's in-depth analysis of how race and mental health have been historically intertwined resonates with my professional experience. His detailed unravelling of the complex interplay between racial liberalism and the practice of psychiatry is both enlightening and critical for understanding the challenges faced by marginalised communities today. Outrageous Reason sheds light on a topic that is often overlooked by white writers. If, like me, you consider yourself an advocate for social justice, I recommend this book as a must-read to increase your understanding of the complex dynamics of race, reason and mental health and also as a timely tool towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society.' -- Rotimi Akinsete, psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EDI consultantTable of ContentsForeword by Dwight Turner, Introduction, 1. Credibility, madness and race, Part 1 Jamaica, slavery and madness, Prologue, 2. From Zorg to Zong: The Zong affair, 3. A testimony from the female lunatic asylum: Henrietta Dawson and her distress, 4. In the bowels of colonial modernity, 5. The 'beneficent despotism' of racial liberalism, 6. Revivalists, Rastafari and psychiatry, Part 2 Poor whites, Prologue, 7. The mad poor as poor whites, 8. Alice Rebecca Triggs: War, madness and migration, Part 3 Pathologies of empire, Prologue, 9. The strange career of R.R. Racey: Mad at his post or the madness of colonialism?, 10. The Mir of Khairpur: Imperial doubts about his 'fitness' to rule, Part 4 Holds that kill, Prologue, 11. Winston Rose: Humanity violated, 12. Orville Blackwood: Humanity disavowed, Part 5 After, Prologue, 13. Disturbing continuities, 14. Burn the ship! Escape the hold!

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Book SynopsisSurviving the war against yourself is the true story of a couple's journey through mental illness and its devastating impact on their life. In a brutally honest account of fear, pain, love and hope, Tom shares what it was like for him to suffer mental illness and Amber opens up about her life as his carer.

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Book SynopsisDesigned as a resource for the clinician versed in identifying and treating depression, a debilitating and sometimes, life-costing illness. It is very common among spouses/partners of addicts and adult children raised in addicted families. Depression is often a co-occurring or subsequent disorder in the addicted client. What sets this book apart from other depression workbooks is that it holds a healthy respect for cognitive behavioral modalities as well as recognizing the role of affective and spiritual interventions related to depressive disorders. This is not a how-to-treat depression book. It is meant for use by the clinician versed in identifying and treating depression.In this revised edition, Claudia provides didactic information and reproducible handouts. In many of the strategies sections, ideas and formats are presented for structured interventions. The use of handouts in the form of written exercises, checklists, sentence stems, structured dialogues and/or art activities is an integral part of this therapeutic technique.

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Book SynopsisThis open access book examines the conversations around gendered mental health in contemporary Western media culture. While early 21st century-media was marked by a distinct focus on happiness, productivity and success, during the 2010s negative feelings and discussions around mental health have become increasingly common in that same media landscape. This book traces this turn to sadness in women’s media culture and shows that it emerged indirectly as a result of a culture overtly focused on happiness. By tracing the coverage of mental health issues in magazines, among female celebrities, and on social media this book shows how an increasingly intimate media environment has made way for a profitable vulnerability, that takes the shape of marketable and brand-friendly mental illness awareness that strengthens the authenticity of those who embrace it. But at the same time sad girl cultures are proliferating on social media platforms, creating radically honest spaces where those who suffer get support, and more capacious ways of feeling bad are formed. Using discourse analysis and digital ethnography to study contemporary representations of mental illness and sadness in Western popular media and social media, this book takes a feminist media studies approach to popular discourse, understanding the conversations happening around mental health in these sites to function as scripts for how to think about and experience mental illness and sadnessTable of Contents1. Introduction2. Magazines: Relatability and Seriousness in Cosmopolitan and Teen Vogue3. Celebrities: Intimacy, ordinariness, and self-transformation in the health narratives of Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez4. Social Media Sadness: Sad Girls and the Public Display of Vulnerability5. Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThis book follows the treatment of a mentally disabled person from an institutional perspective, in which a unit is presented as an objectified subject of other people's actions, revealing a situation of isolation and personal dependence, and from a personnel perspective, as they respect the autonomy and self-determination of their charges. The text highlights how to create, maintain, and reconstruct social order within a nursing home and achieve internal balance and stabilization within a care institution.Trade ReviewAn impressive empirical study that significantly contributes to comprehending mental disability and institutional forms of helping the mentally disabled. Niedbalski presents a highly realistic description, free from political correctness, of the pros and cons of working with stigmatized people. -- Elzebieta Zakrzewska-Manterys, University of Warsaw

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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