Beyond Crazy: Journeys Through Mental Illness

by Julia Nunes

In any given year, one in five Canadians will experience symptoms of mental disorder. So why do we still have such a long way to go towards true understanding and acceptance? Because people are afraid to talk.

Beyond Crazy takes us beyond the barriers of fear and stigma to meet real Canadians from all walks of life who have encountered mental illness. They tell stories of what it is like to journey to the edge of the abyss and back again, of what it is like to suffer deep psychosis or depression, a misdiagnosis, a life-threatening eating disorder, the suicide of a loved one. And they tell stories of hope recovered, of finding the road back to wellness, of families made stronger than ever.

Using the most honest and compelling language – and often a good dose of humour – brave celebrities and unsung heroes tell it like it is. By doing so, they make it easier for those who follow, easier to get past the fear, to move beyond crazy.

Genres: Nonfiction, Psychology, Disability, Mental Health

294 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2002

Reviews

[Amanda Konnik · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gentle approach to the to the realities of mental illness, I really enjoyed this book. Non-agressive and accepting, it taught me that "diseases of the brain" are shared experiences by a whole network of people, and not just by the affected individual. Unfortunately, the "unseen burden" that is carried in plain sight, is still feared and grossly misunderstood.

#magicmoment:

"...the notion that people with a mental illness are somehow stupid, or weak, or defective. Such negative and discriminatory beliefs throw roadblocks into the recovery process." pg.212

"My father had always told me religion was like toothpaste: it comes in lots of different brand names and flavours but the function is the same, to cleanse the soul." pg 229

[Craig Colby · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoughtful, important book with great stories. Highly recommended.

[Amber]

On loan from a friend!

[Michelle Muench]

This book was really good to help me understand all kinda of mental illnesses. It gave me insight into the world in which some people ahev to live and to understand how they are feeling. I would deffinatly reccomend this book. It also give you many interesting facts.

[Tracy Schillemore · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a collection of short recollections of people of all different backgrounds who have suffered with mental illness. This book is recommended by the Canadian Mental Health Association and gives information and perspective without being overwhelming.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good read about mental illness in Canada.