This is a pocket sized, good value series of succinct, thought provoking introductions ideal for students in all mental health disciplines, psychiatric service users, carers and indeed everyone with an interest in mental health. The causes of mental health problems are often more complicated than we would like. Although much recent media attention has been given to being a carer, little of it concerns the particular challenges for someone with mental health problems. This book tells how family and friends of people with complex mental health needs frequently have to battle for, and often with, mental health services, whilst they themselves can be stigmatised. Jen Kilyon and Theresa Smith help carers tell their stories. Although some of them end with a positive outcome and others tell of continuing difficulties, all demonstrate that it is frequently the carers alone who keep hope for recovery alive. The book includes what they found most helpful in their struggles.

Author Biography

Following a career in education Jen Kilyon became involved as a family member in the mental health system. She now works as a trainer and consultant locally, regionally and nationally with organisations such as the Department of Health, The Royal College of Psychiatrists, Mental Health Trusts and Higher Education Institutions. Theresa Smith has worked in education and health for 25 years. She currently works in mental health in a variety of settings with service users and carers as well as delivering training to mental health workers. She has contributed to local and national research programmes for mental health service improvement.