Book Review: Another Kind of Madness

“There are times that I wish I had cancer.” It is difficult to imagine that anyone would wish for cancer. But through the eyes of someone diagnosed with a mental illness, this statement may make more sense. The cultural perception that cancer is a “real” illness and mental health challenges are weaknesses or character flaws is just one example of why efforts to reduce stigma are needed. In Another Kind of Madness, Stephen Hinshaw shares his story of growing up with the unexplained absences of his father. It wasn’t until his father shared information about his bipolar diagnosis while Hinshaw was in college that he was able to better understand the absences. Hinshaw compares the stigma around mental illness to other marginalized groups throughout history, such as the LGBTQ community. Attitudes about gay marriage have changed over the years, but we have not seen that same progression with mental illness. When other groups experience stigma or discrimination, there tends to be solidarity and positive identification with members of the affected group, which provides protection. Whether it’s sexual or racial minorities, the members of these groups can support each other. But who wants to self-identify with a group that’s considered “crazy”? This stigma makes it challenging for people with mental illness. In many cases, they don’t have the support system that’s available to other marginalized groups. While understanding the facts helps people re...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Book Reviews Disorders Family General Personal Stories another kind of madness Memoir Mental Illness Stigma Source Type: news