This book is primarily for people with schizophrenia and their families and gives an overview of the disorder, its treatment (pharmacotherapy and cognitive – behavioural therapy) and the role of the family in management. It contains many case studies, is comprehensive, comprehensible and very well laid out, and the notes at the end of each chapter complement the clear style. My main criticism is that although the authors encourage contact with specialist mental health services, the section on the role of the psychiatrist is next to that on compulsory detention in hospital.
The authors try hard to engage a wide audience and the book is more likely to be read by some patients and their families than others. The families of those with severe mental illness will find this book helpful but it is unlikely to be read by the patients who may have been hospitalised for many years. It will be a useful resource for junior doctors who often have theoretical knowledge of cognitive approaches in psychosis but have very little practical experience. They would particularly benefit from the clear advice that families do not cause schizophrenia. Moreover, it is likely to be helpful for those within the voluntary and charitable sector, those involved in residential care and members of assertive outreach and community mental health teams.
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