In this book, thirty-five young, recently diagnosed patients speak about schizophrenia and the process of recovery, while two specialists illuminate the medical science, psychoeducation, and therapeutic needs of those coping with the illness, as well as access to medical benefits and community resources. A remarkably inclusive guide, the volume informs patients, families, friends, and professionals, detailing the possible causes of schizophrenia, medications and side effects, the functioning of the brain, and the value of rehabilitation and other services. In their dialogues, participants confront shame, stigma, substance use, and relapse issues and the necessity of healthy eating, safe sex practices, and coping skills during recovery. Clinicians elaborate on the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as violent and suicidal thoughts, delusions, hallucinations, memory and concentration problems, trouble getting motivated or organized, and anxiety and mood disorders. Adopting an uplifting tone of manageability, the participants, authors, and clinicians of this volume offer more than advice—they prescribe hope. --- from the publisher Reviews: ""An excellent guide for patients and their families."—Library Journal (starred review)"Far easier to understand than the classic title for [people with schizophrenia] and their families."—Publishers Weekly" — ""These stories tell of experiences that all of us diagnosed with schizophrenia can relate to, so we don't feel so alone. And the more people know about their illness, the easier it is to cope with the symptoms and the more willing they will be to accept treatment, including medication. I wish I had this book when I first got sick."" — Tina, outpatient "Very approachable and offers practical advice on managing symptoms of schizophrenia on a day-to-day basis and in different aspects of life, much needed by people moving toward mental health recovery." — Fang-pei Chen, Columbia University School of Social Work "Diagnosis: Schizophrenia is packed with detailed information, incorporating new information on the brain, genetic issues, medication management, treatment, and coping with symptoms and problems. It is timely, relevant, and informative. No other book offers such comprehensive coverage in a style that intertwines stories with research. Social workers, counselors, physicians, nurses, psychologists, and students will especially find this volume valuable for its quick information that can be easily shared with patients and their families." — Shelly A. Wiechelt, University of Maryland, School of Social Work Contents: Foreword to the Second Edition Foreword Introductory Note A Note on the Title Acknowledgments About the Authors Using This Book Introduction: So They Say We Have Schizophrenia 1. In the Beginning 2. So Many Questions: The Quick Reference Guide 3. How the Brain Works 4. What Is Schizophrenia? 5. Why Me? 6. Diagnosing Schizophrenia 7. What Will People Think of Me Now? 8. Medication 9. Out of the Hospital and Staying Well 10. Coping with Positive and Negative Symptoms 11. Coping with Other Symptoms and Side Effects 12. Drugs, Alcohol, and Safer Sex 13. Under the Microscope 14. Zelda’s Story 15.Who Am I Now? 16. Getting the Social Services You Need 17.Vocational Rehabilitation Appendix 1. Client Assistance Program Directory Appendix 2. Vocational Rehabilitation Directory Appendix 3. Other Resources Index About the Authors: Rachel Miller is a social worker for the National Institute of Mental Health, Child Psychiatry Branch, where she works with children with psychotic disorders and their families. From 1995 to 2007, she was the senior social worker for the first-episode of schizophrenia continuous care team at Zucker Hillside Hospital in New York. Susan E. Mason is professor of social work and sociology at Yeshiva University's Wurzweiler School of Social Work, where she teaches courses on psychiatric disorders. As a social work coordinator at Zucker Hillside Hospital, she managed clinical trials for people diagnosed with schizophrenia. She is a fellow at the New York Academy of Medicine and a senior education specialist and fellow for the New York State Social Work Education Consortium.
|