Beyond Crazy

Book excerpt: In any given year, one in five Canadians will experience symptoms of mental disorder. So why do we still have such a long way to go towards true understanding and acceptance? Because people are afraid to talk. Beyond Crazy takes us beyond the barriers of fear and stigma to meet real Canadians from all walks of life who have encountered mental illness. They tell stories of what it is like to journey to the edge of the abyss and back again, of what it is like to suffer deep psychosis or depression, a misdiagnosis, a life-threatening eating disorder, the suicide of a loved one. And they tell stories of hope recovered, of finding the road back to wellness, of families made stronger than ever. Using the most honest and compelling language – and often a good dose of humour – brave celebrities and unsung heroes tell it like it is. By doing so, they make it easier for those who follow, easier to get past the fear, to move beyond crazy.