Dr. Andrew Brinen has released a new book titled Living Well With Psychosis, which aims to inspire individuals living with psychosis to pursue fulfilling lives. Brinen emphasizes resilience and the power of personal strength in overcoming trauma. His work aligns with the views of pioneers like Dr. Patricia Deegan, a psychologist who has openly shared her experiences with psychosis and advocated for the belief that recovery is achievable.
Historically, many have viewed psychosis as a debilitating condition, but attitudes are evolving. Today, organizations such as ISPS-US are at the forefront of changing perceptions. This group gathers annually to discuss psychological and social approaches to psychosis, fostering a sense of community among clinicians and individuals with lived experiences. The conference highlights various interventions aimed at improving the lives of those affected.
Brinen’s book introduces recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), which integrates the philosophy of recovery into therapeutic practices. Studies indicate that CT-R can significantly enhance hope and promote recovery among individuals with mental health conditions, outperforming traditional treatment methods. This therapy has been implemented across various settings, from state hospitals to specialized programs for young adults experiencing their first episode of psychosis.
The scope of Brinen’s work extends beyond mental health, with researchers applying principles of CT-R to other health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease. These applications have yielded positive outcomes regarding quality of life and life expectancy.
Living Well With Psychosis addresses a wide range of topics related to coping with psychosis and empowering individuals to create lives aligned with their aspirations. Written in an accessible tone, Brinen engages readers through practical exercises and reflective worksheets. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, stating, “Beyond the survival benefits of connection, friends and lovers provide joy and enrichment. They color in and highlight the stories of our lives.”
A significant portion of the book addresses the intersection of psychosis and trauma. Research indicates that nearly 38% of individuals with a psychotic disorder may also experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with an additional 37% showing subthreshold PTSD symptoms. Contrary to previous assumptions, recent evidence suggests that effective trauma therapies can benefit those with both psychosis and PTSD.
Brinen elucidates the challenges of managing intrusive thoughts, likening them to “boomerangs.” He writes, “The harder you throw them out of your mind, the faster they come back.” This analogy resonates particularly with individuals navigating the complexities of PTSD, where avoidance often exacerbates anxiety and hypervigilance.
As resources for individuals experiencing psychosis continue to expand, Brinen’s book stands out as a valuable tool. It not only provides practical strategies but also affirms the humanity of those living with mental health conditions. The worksheets included encourage readers to reflect on their own lives and aspirations, fostering a sense of agency and empowerment.
The publication of Living Well With Psychosis marks a progressive step in the mental health landscape, emphasizing recovery, hope, and the potential for a meaningful life beyond diagnosis. As more practitioners adopt this person-centered approach, the future looks brighter for those affected by psychosis.
