Users and Abusers of Psychiatry: A Critical Look at Psychiatric Practice

Users and Abusers of Psychiatry offers a critical account of day-to-day practice in psychiatric settings, arguing that the traditional way of treating mental distress can exacerbate people's original difficulties. Lucy Johnstone presents a different understanding of psychiatric breakdown and suggests new ways forward, based on a range of evidence. The Classic Edition has been updated to reflect changes in mental health practice over the last three decades, making it a relevant and inspiring read for all involved in mental health.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Users and Abusers of Psychiatry is a groundbreaking and critical exploration of the day-to-day realities of psychiatric settings. Through the use of real-life examples and her own experiences as a clinical psychologist, Lucy Johnstone makes a compelling argument that the traditional approach to treating mental distress often exacerbates individuals' original difficulties, leaving them powerless and re-traumatized.

In this book, Johnstone challenges the prevailing understanding of psychiatric breakdown as solely a medical condition and presents a fresh perspective that emphasizes the role of social, psychological, and cultural factors in shaping mental health. She draws on a wide range of evidence to challenge the dominant narratives and offers alternative ways of understanding and responding to mental distress.

The extended introduction to this Classic Edition of the book brings it up to date by revisiting its themes and tracing the changes in mental health practice over the past three decades. This updated introduction ensures that the book remains relevant and valuable to readers, regardless of their level of expertise or familiarity with the field.

What sets Users and Abusers of Psychiatry apart is its accessibility and clarity. Johnstone's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand complex concepts and theories. The book is also well-organized, with clear headings and subheadings that help guide the reader through the various chapters.

Whether you are a professional working in the field of mental health, a student seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the subject, a service user seeking to better understand your own experiences, a relative seeking to support someone who is struggling with mental health issues, or an interested layperson seeking to learn more about mental health, this book is a must-read. It offers a challenging but ultimately inspiring perspective on the complexities of mental health and provides valuable insights and strategies for navigating the challenges of this growing field.

Weight: 424g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367559816