Home
Meetings
Education
Membership
Consumer Info
Resources
Contact Us
Crisis Line
Books

Books

Except where noted, these books are available through Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com, or the publisher.

Click here to access Mental Illness books and reviews available on Amazon.com.

Kathy Smith-Brooks reviews and recommends monthly reading for NAMI-North Coastal San Diego County.  Click here to read her recommendations.

 

Infants to Adolescents Research Update
Quarterly newsletter

50 Signs of Mental Illness: A Guide to Understanding Mental Health
by J. W. Hicks, MD

A Developmental Model of Borderline Personality Disorder
by Patricia Judd and Thomas McGlashan

A User’s Guide to the Brain: Perception, Attention, and the Four Theaters of the Brain
by John Ratey, MD

Along Came a Spider: A Personal Look at Madness
by Maryanne Raphael

An Unexpected Joy: The Gift of Parenting a Challenging Child
by Mary Sharp, MD

Beyond Behavior
Published three times each ear by the Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders

Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life
by Rev. Dr. James T. Stout

Conversations in the Cognitive Neurosciences
edited by Michael Gazzaniga

Dance of Connection: How to Talk to Someone When You Are Mad, Hurt, Scared, Frustrated, Insulted, Betrayed or Desperate
by Harriet Lerner, PhD

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff . . . and it's all small stuff
by Richard Carlson, PhD

Exuberance: The Passion for Life
by Kay Redfield Jamison

Faith and Health
edited by T. G. Plante and A. C. Sherman

Family Healing: Strategies for Hope and Understanding
by Salvador Minuchin and Michael Nichols

Handbook of Psychiatric Drugs
by L.J. Albers, MD; R.K. Hahn, MD; and C. Reist, MD

I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help
by Xavier Amador

Mad In America
by Robert Whitaker

Matt the Moody Hermit Crab
by Caroline C. McGee

Men and Depression: Clinical and Empirical Perspective
by Sam Victor Cochran, Fredrick Rabinowitz

Necessary Losses
by Judith Viorst

New Hope for People with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
by N. R. Bockian, PhD, V. Porr, MA; and E. Villagran, MA

Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide
by Kay Redfield Jamison

Other Esteem: Meaningful Life in a Multicultural Society
by Philip O. Hwang, PhD

Parents Under Seige: Why You Are the Solution, Not the Problem, In Your Child’s Life
by J. Garbarino, PhD and C. Bedard

Psychiatry and Religion: The Convergence of Mind and Spirit
edited by J.K. Boehnlein, MD

Schizophrenia Into Later Life: Treatment, Research, and Policy
edited by Carl Cohen, MD

Schizophrenia: Your Questions Answered
by Trevor H. Turner, MD

Serenity in Motion—Inner Peace: Anytime, Anywhere
by Nancy O’Hara

Skywriting
by Jane Pauley

Surviving Schizophrenia
by E. Fuller Torrey

Synaptic Self: How Our Brains Become Who We Are
by Joseph LeDoux

The Gift of Therapy: An Open Letter to a New Generation of Therapists and Their Patients
by Irvin Yalom, MD

The Power of Mindful Learning
by Ellen Langer

The Music of Madness
by Tracy Harris

The Normal One: Life with a Difficult or Damaged Sibling
by Jeanne Safer, PhD

The Promise of Parents as Advocates
by B. Weissbourd and J. Lombardi

Unholy Ghostwriters on Depression
Edited by Nell Casey

What Every Patient, Family, Friend, and Caregiver Needs to Know
About Psychiatry

by Richard W. Roukema, MD, FAPA

Who Moved My Cheese?
by Spencer Johnson, MD

“Young and Bipolar,” TIME Magazine
by Jeffrey Kluger and Sora Song, August 19, 2002, pp. 38–47

Family Healing

Family Healing; Strategies for Hope and Understanding
by Salvador Minuchin and Michael Nichols

The Free Press, 1998 (update)

This book is an excellent read concerning the interdependence of the family and its members. According to one person, “Our families are the source of our greatest hope for happiness and sometimes turn out to be the source of our greatest disappointment.” This book offers through personal experiences insights and understandings of the family and the ability to cut through the knots of family dynamics. Solutions (to familiar family
crisis) offer insight into the workings of all families as well as inspiration and hope. We are shown the hidden strengths to be found in the heart of the family itself!

Return to top of page.

 


Synaptic Self

Synaptic Self: How Our Brains Become Who We Are
by Joseph LeDoux

Viking Penguin, 2002

This very readable book by John LeDoux, author of The Emotional Brain, presents a provocative and mind-expanding view of the brain. He states that the bottom line is, “You are your synapses!” What does this mean? Synapses are the spaces between brain cells but Mr. LeDoux believes they are much more…”they are channels of communications between brain cells, and the means by which most of what the brain does is accomplished.” The synaptic explanation of the self is intriguing and challenges the common view that regards the self in terms of self-awareness. This is an attempt to show how nature and nurture work together “to contribute to synaptic connectivity and personality.” Very interesting, easy to read, and useful for reference.

Return to top of page.

 

Young and Bipolar
“Young and Bipolar,” TIME Magazine, August 19, 2002, pp. 38–47
by Jeffrey Kluger and Sora Song

On the front cover of this particular issue of TIME Magazine are the words “Inside the Volatile World of the Young and Bipolar” with a picture of a very normal, young boy. The question they pose on the front cover as well is: “Why are so many kids diagnosed ith the disorder once known as Manic Depression?” It goes on, starting on page 38, with an extensive article about bippolar disorder in children and youth. The pictures accompanying the article are beautiful and unique. Individual stories are cited and delineated in addition to scientific evidence about the disorder. On page 41is a detailed picture of the brain designating points in the brain that are affected . . . what the mood spectrum is . . . and a checklist adapted from “The Bipolar Child” written by Dr. Demitri Papolos (Broadway Books, 1999). Dr. Papolos often speaks to NAMI Conferences.

Available from TIME Magazine.

Return to top of page.

 

Who Moved My Cheese?
Who Moved My Cheese?
by Spencer Johnson, MD
G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1998

This fantastic, little book has been on the Best Seller’s List for four years and beyond. It is easily read in about an hour and can be used for reference or guidance. The cover says it is “An A-Mazing Way to Deal with Change in Your work and In Your Life.” According to the book cover, it is a simple parable that reveals profound truths about change. . . an amusing and enlightening story of four characters, Sniff and Scurry (little mice)—Hem and Haw (little people beings), who live in a “maze” and look for “cheese” to nourish them and make them happy. “Cheese” is a metaphor for what you want to have in life and “maze” is where you look for what you want . . . an organization you work in, or the family or community in which you live. This book is written for all ages with unique insights than can last a lifetime.

Return to top of page.

 

Handbook of Psychiatric Drugs
Handbook of Psychiatric Drugs
by L. J. Albers, MD; R. K. Hahn, MD; and C. Reist, MD
Current Clinical Strategies; ISBN: 1881528944; 102nd edition (January 1, 2000)

This very small updated and revised handbook lists most psychiatric drugs with indications, pharmacology, clinical guidelines to dosages, adverse drug interactions and drug interactions. It also includes selected DSM-IV codes. Purchasers of this text may download the digital book and updates at the publishers website. This is a reference book only.

Return to top of page.

 

New Hope for People with BPD
New Hope for People with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
by N. R. Bockian, PhD; V. Porr, MA; and E. Villagran, MA
Prima Publishing; ISBN: 0761525726; 1st edition (June 15, 2002)

This very up-to-date, excellent book is easily read with ten chapters of excellent and useful information. It also has three Appendices, which include Referral Resources, Self-Help Books/Videos/Web Sites, and Medication Algorithms. Also, Notes, a Glossary and Index are included—very complete! Although this book is written primarily for those interested in knowing more about BPD, it could be read by anyone seeking information about mental illnesses in general. This is a compassionate and complete look at the most cutting-edge information on managing symptoms as well as coping strategies. It answers many questions about BPD, clearly defined in 1980, as well as talks about symptoms that pehaps relate to other disorders in the same spectrum or that are closely related.

Return to top of page.

 

Unholy Ghostwriters on Depression
Unholy Ghostwriters on Depression
Edited by Nell Casey
Harper Perennial; ISBN: 0060007826; (January 8, 2002)

This national bestseller is a collection of unique essays on the subject of depression. These essays address depression with “notable sanity and stylistic elegance exploring the debilitating conditions that fall under the depression umbrella.” An introduction by Kay Redfield Jamison offers an extraordinary glimpse into this ancient and complex topic as well as an overview of the writers themselves . . . “their struggle to define and describe depression is perhaps the most important process for the reader.” This small paperback includes many voices and depicts the most complete portrait of the illness ever compiled.

Return to top of page.

 

Dance of Connection
Dance of Connection: How to Talk to Someone When You Are Mad, Hurt, Scared, Frustrated, Insulted, Betrayed or Desperate
by Harriet Lerner, PhD
Quill; ISBN: 006095616X; 1st Quill edition (August 6, 2002)

This highly rated book is written by a prolific writer who has a focus on women’s issues. Dr. lerner has been teaching readers how to “dance” with difficult relationship issues for over a decade. As a psychotherapist, she has a familiar mix of conversational language and profound empathy for people who are struggling with the most important relationships in their lives. She is well known for her “Dances” on varying topics with an emphasis on dealing with the most difficult people in the most difficult situations, “like when we are betrayed, rejected, insulted, or cut off.” It also gives advice on how to “find your voice.”

Return to top of page.

 

Music of Madness
The Music of Madness
by Tracy Harris
Writers Club Press; ISBN: 0595212565; (January 2002)

Tracy Harris participated in the recent NAMI California Conference offering both her thoughts on mental health as well as her expertise as a musician. Ms. Harris’s book is interesting because she weaves the past, present, and future throughout her autobiography. It is a story about music, her struggle with schizoaffective disorder, and her recovery to lead a rich and rewarding life despite the barriers that she encountered. She attributes her successes and strengths to three elements: 1) Conscientious use of the newer medications; 2) Continuing support of her family; 3) Support of her personal physician. Ms. Harris indicates these three elements together have enabled her to return to the concert stage again. A very simply written book with an especially good chapter entitled ““Recovering My Mind’s Inner Harmony.”

Return to top of page.

 

Psychiatry and Religion
Psychiatry and Religion: The Convergence of Mind and Spirit
edited by J.K. Boehnlein, MD
American Psychiatric Press; ISBN: 0880489200; (March 2000)

This book covers many aspects of psychiatry and religion, including the polarities and unifying concepts between these realms with an emphasis on the point at which they actually meet. This very readable volume is divided into three parts: theoretical principles and trends, clinical perspectives, and future
relationships of psychiatry and religion. Many topics that are rarely discussed elsewhere are included in this 196-page book such as current perspectives, cults, role of clergy in mental health care, spiritual issues in psychiatric education and training, and others. It fills the gap in literature by providing a much-needed sociological and cross-cultural perspective with the interface of psychiatry and religion.

Return to top of page.

 

Faith and Health
Faith and Health
edited by T. G. Plante and A. C. Sherman
Guilford Press; ISBN: 1572306823; (August 2001)

Again, an interesting concept for Mental Health . . . the book begins “. . . there has been strong interest in the relationship between religious faith and health for thousands of years . . . a growing body of contemporary psychological research focuses on the links between religious faith and health outcomes.” Many questions and multiple perspectives are raised with a collection of issues, including research, mental health outcomes, cancer, tobacco and alcohol use among young adults, spiritual interventions, and future directions.The chapter on mental health indicates this relationship has become an increasingly popular subject of investigators with a positive association for well-being. Certainly, the Psycho, Social, Rehab (PSR) movement may attest to this! This is a very useful and rich book for reference.

Also available from UCSD Bookstore.

Return to top of page.

 

The Normal One
The Normal One: Life with a Difficult or Damaged Sibling
by Jeanne Safer, PhD
The Free Press; ISBN: 0743211960; (2002)

This book begins “Nobody knows I have a brother.” It goes on to delineate the purpose of this writing as an attempt “to reveal the neglected, lonely, and lifelong trauma of growing up with an abnormal brother or sister and its effects on personality and society…” Although the writing is very forthright, honest, and blunt, Dr. Safer offers insights, ease, and comfort to those who are siblings plus suggestions as to how and why siblings have escaped scrutiny. Does this tweak your interest? This is a difficult subject, which often causes distress when discussed, especially within families. If one can ignore the total lack of “person first” (the cue is in the title), the read will be less troubling.

In the end. Dr. Safer provides understanding and hope to many who struggle with mental, physical, and social ills that have gone unnamed in sibling relationships.

Also available from UCSD Bookstore.

Return to top of page.

 

Parents Under Seige
Parents Under Seige: Why You Are the Solution, Not the Problem, In Your Child’s Life

by J. Garbarino, PhD and C. Bedard
Simon & Schuster, Inc; ISBN: B000066TPY; (2001)

The event at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, hastened the writing of this book. The authors say, “We wrote this book because our way of looking at the whole picture of a parent-child relationship demands that we offer more than simply a recipe book…the science of human development, which insists that the meaning of specific child-rearing practices depends very much upon where, and when, and in what culture, and with which child we are parenting.” They further stress that we deal with children who have complicated issues in a complex society along with our own inner turmoil as adults (i.e., bad things happen to good people).

Dr. Garbarino, recently in San Diego for the Safe Schools Conference, has written numerous books and here presents tough-minded yet compassionate tactics for parents of children who do not make headlines, but who are exceptionally difficult and disruptive of normal family life. An excellent read for today’s world!

Return to top of page.

 

Along Came a Spider

Along Came A Spider: A Personal Look at Madness
by Maryanne Raphael
Writers Showcase Press; ISBN: 0595237916; (August 2002)

Another beautiful mind gives us a rare opportunity to experience the torments of hallucinations, delusions, and anxieties a biochemical brain disorder can bring. In her most recent and highly rated book, this prolific author shares her intimate feelings, deepest pain, and eventual recovery. Her words are not the usual definitions and descriptions found in mental health literature, but those of a lifelong journal keeper as she endures hospitalizations and the periods in between. She shows the universality of mental illness as she keeps writing through her crises in Brazil, Morocco, New York, California and Hawaii. Finally, Ms. Raphael gives us hope that those who suffer from a mental illness can live a stable, productive life. From her home base in Carlsbad, California, Maryanne now travels the globe, continues her writing career, and is an inspiration to all.

Return to top of page

 

I Am Not SickI Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help
by Xavier Amador
Vida Press; ISBN: 0967718902 ; (June 2000)

Again, another highly popular book that is turning out to be a classic in the realm of mental health literature. Dr. Amador, a presenter and active member of NAMI National, writes about one of the toughest problems in delivering
mental health services…insight into receiving care for a mental illness. This easily read book, based on personal experiences, offers a sensitive presentation of practical, clinically sound approaches to getting a severely ill person to accept needed
treatment. The focus is on building mutual understanding and trust as well as a “much needed, and long overdue, common ground for helping people in crisis.” Dr. Amador indicates partnership is key to acceptance. He also offers an excellent guide to resources and research on “insight.”

Return to top of page

The Gift of TherapyThe Gift of Therapy: An Open Letter to a New Generation of Therapists and Their Patients
by Irvin Yalom, MD
Perennial Press; ISBN: 0060938110; (January 2003)

This is a very interesting and innovative book, with 85 short chapters (categories) in its 250 pages. Dr. Yalom is an award winning author and Professor Emeritus at Stanford University. Both practical and, at the same time profound, the insights offered by the author, are extraordinarily useful and compassionate. This is a collection of “nuts and bolts” concerning favorite interventions or statements… “ to facilitate personal growth and basic character change.” An easily read book which is filled with wise ideas for the professional, family, and client alike and could lead to improved relationships and self-understanding. Well worth the reading.

Return to top of page

Surviving SchizophreniaSurviving Schizophrenia
by E. Fuller Torrey
Quill; ISBN: 0060959193; (May 2003)

E. Fuller Torrey (a researcher, lecturer, and clinician) wrote the initial edition of this book in 1983 in order to provide some basic information to patients and families. NAMI had just been formed, and advocates had an uphill battle. Dr. Torrey indicates in this outstanding, Fourth Updated Edition “the purpose…is to make you aware of the progress of schizophrenia and the possible ways in which it may develop…” Dr.Torrey has worked with NAMI extensively as well as supported thousands to deal with this condition in a better manner. This book is a classic guide which addresses many issues concerning mental health and is mandatory reading for anyone involved with schizophrenia. and includes an excellent bibliography with appendixes such as reference to 50 of the best and 15 of the worst books.

Return to top of page

 

Schizophrenia into Later Life
edited by Carl Cohen, MD
American Psyciatry Pub, Inc.; ISBN: 1585620378; (April 2003)

This is one of the first books written (since 1987) to address the issues of schizophrenia and aging. Above all, Dr. Cohen, one of the leading experts on social support, aging, and schizophrenia, provides a look at the increasing number of older persons with schizophrenia and the “need to mobilize both sciences and services to meet not only their needs but those of their families . . .” This book is really a compilation about schizophrenia across the life cycle. Very up to date, timely, and informative including a chapter referencing NAMI and their resources (chapter 14). Several of our NAMI NCSDC recent speakers, from UCSD, are highlighted in the writings.

Return to top of page

 

A User’s Guide to the BrainA User’s Guide to the Brain: Perception, Attention, and the four Theaters of the Brain
by John Ratey
Vintage Books.; ISBN: 0375701079; (January 2002)

“For the first time ever, discoveries in the neurosciences are beginning to overlap with fields as different as anthropology, philosophy, linguistics, and psychology.” Does this tweak your interest? If not, consider this: Dr. Ratey makes constant use of metaphors and analogies with lots of clarity and repetition to solidify, for the reader, the parts of the brain, its functions, and language. This is a study of the maturation process of the brain and the biologic perspective—in the 21st Century—and how we need to change our thinking and language about the brain . . . nature versus nurture and genetics versus environment, a linking of science, research, environment, and the brain. Very interesting read on how to use our brains to their greatest potential.

Return to top of page

 

Necessary LossesNecessary Losses: The Loves, Illusions, Dependencies, and Impossible Expectations that All of Us Have to Give Up in Order to Grow
by Judith Viorst
Free Press; ISBN: 0446690856 (2002)

This classic, ageless book offers advice on a serious and far-reaching subject which is: “How do we grow and change through the losses that are an inevitable and necessary part of life?”

This is about love, loss, and letting go—something all families and consumers deal with when they confront mental illness. Ms. Viorst indicates that “to look at loss is to see how inextricably our losses are linked to growth.” How can our responses help shape our lives? How do we each deal with loss?

On the one hand, Necessary Losses is a very good read, often humorous with real-life experiences. On the other hand, it also is a complex study in human relationships to discover avenues of positive change, growth, wisdom, and compassion. A very large notes section, elaborations, and bibliography accompany this edition.

Return to top of page

 

Serenity in Motion

Serenity in Motion‚Inner Peace: Anytime, Anywhere
by Nancy O’Hara

Warner Books (2003)

This small paperback is just what you need for the holiday season. The author, who also wrote Find a Quiet Corner, demonstrates how setting aside a few minutes a day to focus on mindful breathing can create an inner peace. In the harried days of the holiday season you do not necessarily need a quiet corner (although it would be preferable). You can apply these skills as you rush around to the myriad of appointments, decisions, crisis, and challenges you might face. Let this book help you tap into your own “intuitive reservoir for all solutions.” In southern California, we all move at a dizzying pace and can include our minds as well as our bodies. So, take a minute to read this very helpful book to slow down the movement of your bodies as well as your minds...really helpful suggestions for the busy holiday season.

Return to top of page

 

A Developmental Model of Borderline Personality Disorder
by Patricia Judd and Thomas McGlashan
American Psychiatric Publishing; ISBN: 0880485159 (2002)

Although this is a very technical book, the authors present the material in a very readable format. It is an excellent resource for those who wish to better understand BPD, one of the most challenging disorders to treat. The developmental approach and model are stressed as well as themes and issues relating to this disorder, such as empathy (i.e., capacity), unstable relationships (i.e., secrecy, odd thinking, etc.), emotional dysregulation (i.e., anger, depression, anxiety, blame, etc.), and behavioral dysregulation (i.e., compulsiveness, high risks, substance abuse, etc.). This is truly a fascinating book to review with four in-depth case studies. One of our very own local professionals, Dr. Judd of UCSD, presented at one of our recent NAMI NCSDC general meetings. I wish to thank Dr. Judd for sending me a book to review.

Return to top of page

 

Conversations in the Cognitive Neurosciences
Edited by Michael Gazzaniga
MIT Press; ISBN: 026257117X (2002)

Another little scientific paperback on the brain and cognitive neurosciences from one of our UCSD Researchers. Dr. Gazzaniga has integrated a series of interviews with leading brain and mind scientists. It is a very “coherent whole that is rich in substance.” He uses open- ended questions with a direct focus to engage famous, thoughtful, and articulate researchers about historical perspectives as well as cutting-edge cognitive neurosciences. These interviews were first published in the Journal of Cognitive Neurosciences but are easy reads and include some of our local researchers from Scripps Institute and UCSD. . .key ideas and latest technical advances that will help to unravel the mysteries of the mind and brain.

Return to top of page

 

Mad in America—Bad Science, Bad Medicine, and the Enduring Mistreatment of the Mentally Ill
by Robert Whitaker
Perseus Book Group; ISBN: 0738207993 (2003)

This is a very controversial book that continues to stir a lot of emotions. The book offers an excellent history about mental health/illness and then moves into the contemporary scene. One of the main protagonists is Loren Mosher, MD, one of our local luminaries, who is a Past Medical/Clinical Director of County Mental Health Services. This is basically an expose on drug companies, and how they have “skewed their studies in an effort to prove their effectiveness of their products.” This book is worth the read because it raises important questions about what is actually going on in the mental health field, and what we value most in the population of those with mental illnesses. In order to be an informed activist for mental health issues, it vitally important to know what others are saying. This book is an excellent opportunity in which to do that.

Return to top of page

 

What Every Patient, Family, Friend, and Caregiver Needs to Know About Psychiatry
by Richard W. Roukema, MD, FAPA
American Psychiatric Press; ISBN: 1585621102 (2004)

This book is written in a concise, simple style for the layperson and is packed with information that is much needed for all. This is an excellent resource with basic, understandable information about psychiatric problems we all face. Dr. Roukema received the Psychiatrist of the Year Award from NAMI, New Jersey, and numerous other recognitions. This is written following September 11, 2001, and addresses many issues concerning anxieties related to this event as well as the role of the psychiatrist in this day and age. This book provides the latest data…recent genetic findings, new diagnostic procedures, brain scan techniques, medications, and other avenues of interest to the mental health field. Of special interest: there are some very interesting topics on obvious related physical health issues. Find out what families, caregivers, and friends can do.

Return to top of page

 

An Unexpected JoyAn Unexpected Joy: The Gift of Parenting a Challenging Child
by Mary sharp, MD
Pinon Press; ISBN: 1576834611 (2004)

A small paperback and an inspiring book that offers hope, humor, and an extremely poignant look at the challenges of raising a child with the disability of autism. Despair, tears, laughter are all part of this excellent little book. We all know the challenges of raising children and youth with disabilities, but this book is especially honest and insightful and will move you deeply. You will find yourself over and over again as you fly through this read. There is a very special chapter on grief. “It is a story of realistic hope and emergence . . . the pain of feeling lost and the joy of being found.” Highly recommended for our NAMI families.

Return to top of page

 

The Promise of Parents as Advocates
by B. Weissbourd and J. Lombardi
Journal Zero to Three, Vol. 24, No. 1

Your first reaction may be why review this article in Journal of Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families? Well, it is an excellent overview and look at the recognition of the potential of “parent voices” and how their roles of advocacy may be utilized. At a glance, the article covers how parents organize around specific issues of immediate problems; how parent action grows from the bottom up—from community advocacy to national issues; why effective public policy promotes parent involvement; and why good professional practice includes listening to parents and encouraging them to find their voice. This is a six-page article that stresses the power that parents and families have . . . how to raise their voices and become leaders in efforts to change their communities. To obtain a copy of this article, call the NAMI North Coastal office at 760-722-3754.

Return to top of page

The Power of Mindful Learning
The Power of Mindful Learning
by Ellen J. Langer
Perseus Books; ISBN: 0201339919 (1998)

Delightfully simple, remarkably profound!”This surely summarizes the small paperback (167 pages including notes and index) that strives to portray traditional methods of learning as mindless behavior that tends to get people to overlearn a fact or a task—and that this is the only way to do it. Dr. Langer, Professor of Psychology at Harvard University, is a prolific writer and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field of psychology. She puts forth a very specific theory with three characteristics:

1. The continuous creation of new categories
2. Openness to new information
3. An implicit awareness of more than one perspective.

One would surmise this would be extremely helpful to those with brain disorders and their families.

Return to top of page

 


Matt the Moody Hermit Crab

by Caroline C. McGee
McGee & Woods, Inc.; ISBN: 1891347063 (2002)

Who is Moody Matt? Matt is a children’s chapter book about Matt, a middle boy in a family of five, with childhood-onset bipolar disorder. It is a fictional work loosely based on the author’s own experiences
and those of other bipolar children. It is a mystery in that you don’t know what is really wrong with Matt until chapter 11. The book describes the feelings of every member of the family that surrounds Matt as well as his teacher and friends at school. This book can be a useful and insightful read for anyone dealing with a child with mood disorders. The plot is a typical family dealing with each other on a day-to-day basis. It offers hope to the family and the classroom. It can help to educate any of us about mental illness in a nonthreatening and painless way. It’s a fun, easy read and a great book to read to children.

A Parent/Teacher Guidebook is also available for discussion. It comes with information about symptoms, statistics, and tips for parents/teachers on how to help others understand what Matt is going through. It includes a suggested reading list, list of organizations (including NAMI), and web sites.

Return to top of page

Your Questions AnswredSchizophrenia: Your Questions Answered
by Trevor H. Turner, MD
Churchill Livingstone; ISBN: 0443073473 (2004)

“Your Questions Answered” is a new series of handbooks that provide succinct, expert opinion on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of many chronic conditions.” This small paperback uses the popular question and answer format plus sections of frequently asked patients’ questions in order to offer easy-to-understand answers. Dr. Turner strives to provide accurate information about (1) the reality of the illness, (2) a clarity about areas that remain uncertain, and (3) help to physicians and families with the complex business of providing care. One of the most important, single facts about schizophrenia in the 21st century (offered in this book) is—it is extremely treatable! Worth your read!

Return to top of page

 

Other EsteemOther Esteem: Meaningful Life in a Multicultural Society
by Philip O. Hwang, PhD
Brunner-Routledge; ISBN: 1560328762 (2000)

This book offers a “common sense” approach to life and is based on the philosophy of (1) interdependency versus independency perspective, (2) mutual cooperation versus self-sufficiency, and (3) a synergistic way of action versus individualistic idiosyncratic behavior to all life’s routine. Well, you must be thinking by now, this make no sense at all, much less “common sense”! To read this book, you must want to learn and want to change! This is the challenge…to be accountable for your own actions. The book has some value in evaluating where you are in your personal life, and how you might change it for a positive future.

Return to top of page

Night Falls FastNight Falls Fast
by Kay Redfield Jamison
Vintage Books USA; ISBN: 0375701478 (2000)

This is a really troublesome and disturbing subject to read, write, or talk about, but sooner or later in the Mental Health field, we must come face to face with the concept of suicide (although often reluctantly). Dr. Jamison has written a most profound and compassionate book on the study of suicide. Few writers could match or even attempt to write a book with such personal compassion, experience, and literary skill on this subject. San Diego County has one of the highest nationwide rates of suicide in the teen years as well as in older adults, especially men. Where is our concern? We should understand the minds of those who might attempt suicide, recognize those at risk, and comprehend the heartfelt effects on those left behind. This outstanding book, with extensive appendix and notes, will help you do just this. Dr. Jamison ends with . . . “Look to the living, love them, and hold on.”

Return to top of page

Don't Sweat the Small StuffDon’t Sweat the Small Stuff . . . and it’s all small stuff
by Richard Carlson, PhD
Hyperion; ISBN: 0786881852 (January 1997)

This small, best selling book offers “simple ways to keep the little things
from taking over your life.” It is a nice and light way to end your summer reading…100 suggestions (mini chapters) to calm down in the midst of our incredibly hurried and stressed-filled lives. When we deal with difficult people, are immobilized by little things, begin to focus on the negative, lose sight of the bigger picture, feel our advocacy is for naught, and so on forever, we begin to develop certain habits that do not serve us well! The ideas in this book will not make your life perfect, but certainly you “will learn to accept what life has to offer with far less resistance.” Take a few minutes to nourish your own sense of well-being with this helpful little book!

Return to top of page

Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life
by Rev. Dr. James T. Stout
Cypress House; ISBN: 1879384442 (May 2002)

Dr. Stout has written a first-hand and candid disclosure of his personal life experiences in a most poignant manner. Most recently, in August 2004, Dr. Stout was a plenary speaker at the NAMI California conference in San Francisco. In addition, he was a recipient of NAMI California’s “Distinguished Clergy Award 2001.” I read this book as a family member and found it heart wrenching as well as extremely depressing. However, this is a story of success with messages of hope, specific advice/ practical tools, perspectives about the self, information on bipolar disorders, and other sources of help. Those who suffer with this illness will find the book very helpful with the challenges they may face. Dr. Stout and his wife, Leah, continue to be extremely active in Orange County with the crusade to overcome the stigma of mental illnesses.

Return to top of page

Skywriting
by Jane Pauley
Random House; ISBN: 1879384442 (May 2002)

Ms. Pauley calls her memoir a “personal process of discovery.” Jane Pauley has had a career in broadcasting since 1972. She joined NBC as the first woman to co-anchor weeknight evening newscasts in Chicago and is now most known for “Dateline” and most currently “The Jane Pauley Show.” She relates how her diagnosis with bipolar disorder occurred. The illness was medically induced by treatment for something very innocuous . . . hives. However, all of Ms. Pauley’s life had been far less conventional than it looked and especially as she grew into a very successful TV personality.

This easily read book is an interesting insight into a celebrity’s culture, and how the public image might differ from her insecurities . . . about strengths and how to use them in a life filled with insecurity. She ends with: “There are no charmed lives, only lives.”

Return to top of page

Exuberance: The Passion for Life
by Kay Redfield Jamison
Alfred A. Knofp, ISBN: 0375701486, 2004

This fourth book by Dr. Jamison comes with mixed reviews. Many praise it as a “delight of a book.” In comparison, some say it is a disappointment—just another way of describing mania. Dr. Jamison is an excellent and prolific writer with several successful books including, The Unquiet Mind. She describes exuberance as “a bounty and a blessing . . . has its dangers . . . an amazing thing.”

All of us in NAMI need passion to be advocates for mental health issues and our families. How do we determine the difference between passion/exuberance, and perhaps, a pathological mood disorder? This book is about the ability to make the determination, about playfulness and joy (a necessity according to Jamison), then to use your passion and exuberance to spring forward in whatever field of endeavor you choose.

Read, judge for yourself, then send your welcome comments to our book reviewer at ncami@msn.com.

Return to top of page

Beyond Behavior
Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders, ISBN: 0375701486, 2004

This very interesting journal/magazine explores behavior of children and youth as well as publishes material of interest to persons who are concerned with the challenges presented by children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders. The goals of this publication are to provide a source of analysis and commentary, to broaden the impact of research on practice, and to lend support and affirmation to those who work or live with children and youth who have emotional and behavioral problems.

The most recent issue includes articles on Asperger Syndrome and Six Strategies for Success, Transitioning Children
Between Activities…, Promoting Better Family-School Community Partnerships for ALL of America’s Children, and other current, useful, important trends and issues.

This journal publishes in a style of writing that engages the reader and is of interest across many arenas including families. This publication is worthy of your time!

Subscription is $25/year

Return to top of page

50 Signs of Mental Illness: A guide to Understanding Mental Health
by J. W. Hicks, MD
Yale University Press, ISBN: 0300106572, 2005

This extremely useful book presents fifty signs and symptoms (alphabetically) that may or may not indicate mental illness. This is written for anyone concerned about mental health and introduces a wide range of psychiatric symptoms and treatments across all ages. The jargon has been tossed, and mental illnesses are described in everyday terms—what it looks and feels like. This excellent, large book with 389 pages is extremely well-presented with invaluable resources and may be used as a reference source…worth your time and effort to check out.

Let us always remember to be vigilant as well as to track what mental illness looks and feels like, especially with our youth!

Return to top of page

Men and Depression: Clinical and Empirical Perspective
by Sam Victor Cochran and Fredrick Rabinowitz
Academic Press, ISBN: 0121775402, 1999

This is one of the first books to address men and depression, and one of only a few currently available that integrates psychological theories and the latest research findings with clinical recommendations for working with men suffering from depression. It covers a wide range of topics and issues that relate to men and depression, including assessment, statistics, theories, treatments with both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, interrelation of issues, suicide/risk of, and prospects for the future. We have reviewed this book in the past, but it is still up to date, cutting edge, with insights and detailed questions/answers at the end of each chapter.

Return to top of page

 

Infants to Adolescents Research Update
Years 200 to 2005
www.infantstoteens.com

This quarterly newsletter summarizes psychological research in child and adolescent development. This newsletter aims to provide brief, accurate, and reader-friendly reviews of research drawn from various psychological, sociological, and medical literature, along with scientifically, evidence-based parenting advice related to the development of babies, toddlers, children and teenagers. The newsletter also comments on researchers' interpretation of their findings. Individual subscriptions are $16 for the electronic version and $20 for the regular mail version. A sampling of reviews during october 2005 are collected from the Journal of AMA, Psychiatry Research, Journal of Personality, Journal of Adolescent Health, and many others. You may access their innovative web site at the above address.