Linda Wasmer Andrews

An interesting book that mixes medical facts about schizophrenia in with a true account of an individual with schizophrenia. There are also a few accounts from others who have dealt with schizophrenia. The book is written for Americans, as it refers to treatments and groups local to America.

My one point of contention: the author mentions the rate and risk of abuse in schizophrenia sufferers, and explains some people won't take no for an answer, followed immediately with how to prevent getting into the situation. It makes no allowances for the (majority) people who do a lot of things right and are still raped or abused. It also makes no mention of the right to press charges or how to seek help, and glosses over the need for treatment of likely PTSD after such an incident. While taking defensive actions to prevent what one can is important, it feels a little like victim blaming and does a poor job of helping victims get the help and understanding they need. It's clearly a large topic for a book focused on other issues, but it does a shallow job of pointing those in need in the right direction here.… (meer)