Psychiatric Bulletin (2006) 30: 358-359. doi: 10.1192/pb.30.9.358-b
© 2006 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Psychiatric Bulletin (2006) 30: 358-359
© 2006 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Coping with Schizophrenia: A Guide for Patients, Families and Caregivers
Steven Jones & Peter Hayward
J. Fiona Macmillan, Consultant Psychiatrist
South Staffordshire Healthcare Trust, Stafford ST16 3AG, email:
Fiona.macmillan{at}ssh-tr.nhs.uk
Oxford: Oneworld Publications, 2004, $17.95, pb, 192 pp. ISBN:
1-85168-344-5
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.
