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In this uniquely formatted book, Patricia Backlar, a mental health ethicist and mother of a son who suffers from schizophrenia, eloquently recounts true stories about families whose adult children suffer from this cruel disease. Following each narrative, experts from the various mental health professions offer advice on the issues raised by each story: . The story of a father's heartbreaking struggle to care for his son is followed by a psychiatrist's commentary, which sorts out the confusing array of public and private services available to mentally ill people and their families. The doctor also explains the role of medications and how to obtain insurance benefits and financial assistance for treatment and living expenses; . the devastating tale about a homeless young woman is told in two sections. The first part is followed by a social worker's commentary that provides suggestions helpful to families searching for their mentally ill relatives. After the second part, two psychiatric nurses comment on how to manage and improve the mental health system; . an account of a young man's suicide attempt is followed by a psychiatrist's commentary on why suicide is the main cause of death among victims of schizophrenia. He describes the risk factors and provides treatment considerations that every family should know; . the emotional report of a psychiatrist's murder by his patient is followed by an attorney's commentary on legal issues relating to mentally ill people. In other chapters, psychologists explore the specific problems of single parents with adult children suffering from schizophrenia; how police can be trained to overcome the difficulties they may face in dealing with psychotic peopl and how people with schizophrenia, their families, and professionals can work together to improve the delivery of mental health services. These stories are not tales of easy answers; schizophrenia may be treatable, but to this day, it has no cure. However, this book offers hope because it teaches readers how to navigate the complicated labyrinth of medical and social services and to become more effective in managing schizophrenia.

"With conviction and compassion, the authors describe how all kinds of communities have dealt with ...serious problems...power plays, and more. Also: good communication in meetings; fair productive decision-making; using inevitable conflicts to deepen friendship. A worthy resource for any community."

Diana Leafe Christian, Millennium Whole Earth Catalog

Creating Community Anywhere: Finding Support and Connection in a Fragmented World: Search Results