Rating: 
Summary: The best consumer oriented book about schizophrenia
Review: I read this book because I agree with many of the things Dr. Torrey says about severe mental illness. I DO NOT agree with everything he says, but much I do agree with. One claim of Dr. Torrey's that he makes in this book that I do not agree with is his claim that "anti-psychotic drugs are extremely safe drugs." While this might be soothing info to a schizophrenic ignorant to the realities of anti-psychotic medication, it is hardly true. It doesnt let off a schizophrenic for taking their neuroleptics however Dr. Torrey could have said something along the lines of "dramatic improvements are needed in developing truly safe anti-psychotic medication." Furthermore, usage of anti-psychotic medication for non-schizophrenia uses such as mood and anxiety disorders is extremely dangerous and should be dramatically curtailed. Other than that, I found this book to be comprehensive and good. While I personally am not diagnosed with schizophrenia, I found it fascinating and of high quality nonetheless. For anyone diagnosed with any severe form of mental illness (schizophrenia, bipolar, severe depression) I would recommend this book to. Just the chapter on mental health advocacy/lobbying is worth the cost of the book IMO. More people with serious mental illness need to become involved in politics and mental illness lobbying. That is the only way things will ever really improve and Dr. Torrey makes this clear. More mentally ill individuals need to vote. What I found most interesting about this book though is the sardonic and derisive description of psychiatry, coming from another psychiatrist who is a specialist in severe mental illness. This is extremely rare and its why I admire Dr. Torrey. He says the things that some people think, but dont have the guts to say in public. His description of the various advocacy and lobbying groups that supposedly represent the severely mentally ill is disheartening. There really isnt a good lobby organisation for the severely mentally ill IMO. NAMI is the best we have so far, but even NAMI has many shortcomings. Dr. Torrey makes it clear that very few people or organisations could give a hoot about the severely mentally ill. Including psychiatry. And these claims of his, which some might have trouble believing, have matched up exactly with my personal experiences with psychiatry. Private practice psychiatry is not geared towards the care of severely mentally ill individuals. And public psychiatry is of such poor, shoddy quality in most cases that its a disgrace that we as a society treat the worst cases in the public system mostly. While not mentioned specifically in this book, the thing Dr. Torrey has said elsewhere that most impresses me is something I had figured out on my own long before I ever heard of Dr. E. Fuller Torrey. And that is that at some point, if we are ever to TRULY get serious about severe mental illness, psychiatry is going to have to be formally merged into Neurology. At some point, Neurology is going to have to take a much larger and direct role in treating the severely mentally ill. Psychiatry is too scientifically primitive and too focused on "behavioral control" to deal with true brain based illnesses such as schizophrenia, manic depression and severe depression. Dr. Torrey is a hero for speaking his mind and telling it like it really is. Other psychiatrists should do the same. If you are schizophrenic, definitely get this book (take your meds too). If you have another form of severe mental illness get a copy of this book and at least read the chapter on mental health advocacy and lobbying. Eric
Rating:
Summary: Understanding Psychosis.
Review: If you have ever had problems with anxieties, fears, paranoia, manias, hallucinations, visions, confusion, catatonia, or delusional thinking, then maybe this book can help you. I generally don't really believe in diagnosis (other than as the only tool currently available to get insurance companies to pay for psychiatric medications), but at various points in my life (probably at 8 different points, 6 of which lasted for over a month) I have experienced rather severe existential crises (otherwise known as psychotic breaks) beginning at age 21 and have usually been advised to see a doctor by a family member. I have tried different psychiatric medicines, and have generally found that antipsychotics combined with depakote seem to work best for me. I'm sure that I have a mild case compared to many and indeed I count myself fortunate for that. Generally though I find myself somewhat less secure (in existential terms) in my being than most. Also, I can relate to some of what is written here, particularly regarding thought disorders (thought blocking and such) which I have at various times tried to describe in terms of "brainwashing", "thought control", "feeling other people's feelings", or other terms. I have also experienced what I like to call "robot mind", a sort of out of body experience where the soul seems to separate from the body, and routinely draw diagrams of individuals trying to understand the "control relations" between them. I believe these constitute some of the more common forms of thought confusion found in severe depressions, under stress, or as part of a psychotic break. Generally, I live existentially apart from most other people, sometimes almost entirely within my own world. Although I can still function, hold down a job, and go to school, though I am very introverted. If you can relate to any of this then maybe this book will help you, although you probably have sought other means by now to relieve your life crisis. _Surviving Schizophrenia_ is written with a great deal of compassion, from the perspective of mainstream psychiatry. I can't say that I agree with everything in it, or even with its largely scientistic bias (I tend to think in terms of mystical experiences and religion, though my training is in the hard sciences originally), but it may provide some useful guidance if you are prone to these sorts of existential conflicts or if you know a loved one who is so. You may find it helpful also to consult some of the available literature on mysticism as well as working through art and literature to relieve the tension of your so called "illness". I have found in particular my religion, Roman Catholicism, the works of Carl Jung, and Gurdjieff, as well as the writings of Julian Jaynes to be useful (at least interesting) in framing my understanding about certain things and experiences which I have undergone. Otherwise, the book is useful at least in that it attempts to categorize illness, is written with compassion, and gives advice on various psychiatric medications and designer pharmaceuticals which have tended to improve life for millions. Although this illness can indeed completely "ruin" a life, it is perhaps more positive to think in terms of "transformation". Perhaps "schizophrenia" is merely a transformation or stage that certain individuals must go through to reach unto the next level on the Great Chain of Being.
Rating:
Summary: Understanding Psychosis.
Review: If you have ever had problems with anxieties, fears, paranoia, manias, hallucinations, visions, confusion, catatonia, or delusional thinking, then maybe this book can help you. I generally don't really believe in diagnosis (other than as the only tool currently available to get insurance companies to pay for psychiatric medications), but at various points in my life (probably at 8 different points, 6 of which lasted for over a month) I have experienced rather severe existential crises (otherwise known as psychotic breaks) beginning at age 21 and have usually been advised to see a doctor by a family member. I have tried different psychiatric medicines, and have generally found that antipsychotics combined with depakote seem to work best for me. I'm sure that I have a mild case compared to many and indeed I count myself fortunate for that. Generally though I find myself somewhat less secure (in existential terms) in my being than most. Also, I can relate to some of what is written here, particularly regarding thought disorders (thought blocking and such) which I have at various times tried to describe in terms of "brainwashing", "thought control", "feeling other people's feelings", or other terms. I have also experienced what I like to call "robot mind", a sort of out of body experience where the soul seems to separate from the body, and routinely draw diagrams of individuals trying to understand the "control relations" between them. I believe these constitute some of the more common forms of thought confusion found in severe depressions, under stress, or as part of a psychotic break. Generally, I live existentially apart from most other people, sometimes almost entirely within my own world. Although I can still function, hold down a job, and go to school, though I am very introverted. If you can relate to any of this then maybe this book will help you, although you probably have sought other means by now to relieve your life crisis. _Surviving Schizophrenia_ is written with a great deal of compassion, from the perspective of mainstream psychiatry. I can't say that I agree with everything in it, or even with its largely scientistic bias (I tend to think in terms of mystical experiences and religion, though my training is in the hard sciences originally), but it may provide some useful guidance if you are prone to these sorts of existential conflicts or if you know a loved one who is so. You may find it helpful also to consult some of the available literature on mysticism as well as working through art and literature to relieve the tension of your so called "illness". I have found in particular my religion, Roman Catholicism, the works of Carl Jung, and Gurdjieff, as well as the writings of Julian Jaynes to be useful (at least interesting) in framing my understanding about certain things and experiences which I have undergone. Otherwise, the book is useful at least in that it attempts to categorize illness, is written with compassion, and gives advice on various psychiatric medications and designer pharmaceuticals which have tended to improve life for millions. Although this illness can indeed completely "ruin" a life, it is perhaps more positive to think in terms of "transformation". Perhaps "schizophrenia" is merely a transformation or stage that certain individuals must go through to reach unto the next level on the Great Chain of Being.
Rating:
Summary: Five Stars Is Not Enough
Review: My son is alive and thriving today largely because of Dr. E. Fuller Torrey's books and activities on behalf of the severely mentally ill. Six years ago, Dr. Torrey's third edition of Surviving Schizophrenia was the first book I read on the subject. Our family was in crisis after my oldest son had his first psychotic break. Dr. Torrey's practical, sound, humane advice was godsent information. I had read Bateson and Satir years before in grad school. Based on their writings, I felt responsible and guilty that my son developed schizophrenia. Dr. Torrey's book allowed me to move beyond misplaced guilt with it's clarity of thought on an illness beset by flakey books and ideas. His practical advice guided us in selecting a multidisciplinary team to work with our son who is doing well even though he requires occasional hospitalization. Dr. Torrey's endnotes guided us into a wide field of research that broadened our understanding. I have since read extensively on the subject: neurology, genetics, and psychiatric texts; legal and medical journals; history; etc. I spend two days a month at the UC Davis Medical School's library researching psychosocial and cognitive-behavioral treatments. I also advocate for sane public policies that are directed toward the severely mentally ill. You cannot beat this book's wise counsel. In one place, you can find information on almost every aspect of the illness. As broadly read in the field as I am, I discovered new and exciting developments in Dr. Torrey's latest edition. This is the first book that I would give anyone who needs to understand schizophrenia. For families, consumers, and providers, Surviving Schizophrenia is the bible on almost every aspect of the disorder. Buy copies for yourself, parents, children, friends, teachers, clergy, ....
Rating: 
Summary: "The apple...it seems, doesn't fall to far from the tree"
Review: My son was diagnosed this past January(2004)with "Acute Schizophrenia". I immediately began my research at the local library. Inundated and very naive, I checked-out any/everything related to "Schziophrenia". When I got to Dr. Torrey's book, I felt a sense of "understanding". He writes about the "common" everyday encounters one can have, as well the, "not so pleasant" issues in dealing with schizophrenia. I feel his book is consumer/user friendly and easy to read. My journey is far from over, but Dr. Torrey's knowledge and insight has made the "light at the end of my tunnel" seem much brighter and hopeful! My "Heartfelt" love, truly goes out to all who are dealing with mental illness.
Rating:
Summary: "The apple...it seems, doesn't fall to far from the tree"
Review: My son was diagnosed this past January(2004)with "Acute Schizophrenia". I immediately began my research at the local library. Inundated and very naive, I checked-out any/everything related to "Schziophrenia". When I got to Dr. Torrey's book, I felt a sense of "understanding". He writes about the "common" everyday encounters one can have, as well the, "not so pleasant" issues in dealing with schizophrenia. I feel his book is consumer/user friendly and easy to read. My journey is far from over, but Dr. Torrey's knowledge and insight has made the "light at the end of my tunnel" seem much brighter and hopeful! My "Heartfelt" love, truly goes out to all who are dealing with mental illness.
Rating:
Summary: Very, Very Helpful
Review: SURVIVING SCHIZOPHRENIA has to be one of the most helpful books ever written. When I first read an earlier edition in the 1990's until this latest edition, I have found many suggestions that benefit my life, the life of my friends, and the life of my family. Fuller Torrey makes clear that there are many illnesses that resemble true schizophrenia, but will later be diagnosed otherwise. As patients and families begin their journeys with the medical profession, it is good to have a copy of SURVIVING SCHIZOPHRENIA in their pockets.
Rating:
Summary: The family manual on understanding Schizophrenia
Review: The manual is broken down into eleven chapters, four appendixes, a listing of courses on Schizophrenia, listing of addresses for provider training programs, listing of groups and activities and a listing of the best journals covering Schizophrenia.
There is a notes section at the back that goes into detail for each chapter the references from recent summary articles. Lastly is a twenty-page index to assist in searching for specific information.
The book starts with a preface to the third and first editions and a page showing where illustrations can be found within the manual. The first line in the preface to the first edition explains the fear many are faced when receiving the diagnosis of Schizophrenia.
It is mentioned that the younger the diagnosis the better the outcome as the individual gets older and females fare better. Under the street drug psychosis section the question is discussed on whether drug use can cause schizophrenia. There is now evidence that repeated use of mind-altering drugs can damage the brain but no concrete evidence that it causes schizophrenia.
Chapter eight goes into detail on the rehabilitation of schizophrenia with medication, counseling, employment and housing issues. There is information on how to develop friendships and obtain medical care. Chapter nine is the major problems consisting of cigarettes, coffee, alcohol and street drugs, sex, pregnancy and AIDS.
In all honesty I got this book to prove that schizophrenia is a real mental illness to the court system and help in understanding and dealing with my ex. I feel that since he is on medication many have the wrong impression of his current state of mind and this reference manual acknowledged many things I knew but needed reassurance.
This is a useful reference manual for anyone who knows of a schizophrenic individual or is preparing to work in the mental health field. I even suggest family law specialists to peruse this manual for research in how to deal with those who are schizophrenic.
Rating:
Summary: This the best book on the subject of schizophrenia
Review: This book covers pretty much all the aspects of Schizophrenia. It details everything, starting with what it is like to have such an illness to outcomes and treatment of Schizophrenia.I found this book extremely accurate detailing what I myself experienced as a shizophrenia sufferer
Rating:
Summary: Excellent Resource
Review: This is an excellent resource for family members of the mentally ill. It gives a very clear picture of what schizophrenia is (as clear as current medical science can be anyway) ETF is very honest in the explanation he gives about medications and the drug companies. Overall, I thought this was a well-written, extremely informative book and I have already purchased another copy for my father.
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