Synopses & Reviews
Review
"Finally, the support I've been looking for is here. Dr. Morrison explains a wide range of disorders--not just the ones that everyone is talking about at the moment--as well as providing suggestions for possible treatments and medications. This book has helped me find the words I need to discuss my concerns with my doctor and my family, and to make these very difficult decisions with more confidence and peace of mind."--J. London, NYC
"What is this? A mental health textbook for public consumption? No way! But Dr. Morrison has combined his careers as a practicing psychiatrist, a noted researcher, a respected teacher, and a popular author to produce this work that I (and many of my colleagues) have wanted to write for years. It should become the flagship among many other fine efforts to help the public navigate the confusing seas of mental disorders. It will be 'must reading' for my patients and their loved ones, as well as my students."--Charles L. Rich, MD, Department of Psychiatry, University of South Alabama
"Dr. Morrison has done it again. In his easy, witty, and conversational style, he distills knowledge, wisdom, and thoughtful advice that reflects many years of research, teaching, and clinical practice. This is by far the best guide for anyone who wants to know about mental health care."--Rodrigo A. Muñoz, MD, San Diego County Medical Society
"This book provides what readers might not find anywhere else: a map through the maze of today's mental health system. Consumers are often confused and bewildered about whether they should seek mental health care, and what will happen if they do. How does one find a good doctor or therapist? What are my treatment options, and how do I evaluate the role of medicines and psychotherapy? How do I know if I am getting good care, and how can I make sure that I do? Putting up-to-date information into the hands of informed consumers ready to play an active role in their treatment, this invaluable book is 'must' reading for anyone considering mental health services."--Peter S. Jensen, MD, Department of Child Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons
Synopsis
Too often, mental health care is postponed due to fears about what treatment might entail. Now Dr. James Morrison, a highly experienced practitioner with a no-nonsense approach, provides up-to-date facts and reliable advice about what might be wrong and what you can do about it. Explaining what really works for a wide range of psychological difficulties, Dr. Morrison gives frank and empathetic answers to all the common questions, plus many you may not even think of asking:
*Why do I have these symptoms and when will they get better?
*How safe are drugs like Prozac--and what about herbal remedies?
*What will I have to go through to find out what's wrong?
*How will I know if I've found a good therapist?
*How can I get the best care when my insurance and finances are limited?
*What can I expect in the months and years ahead?
Whether you feel trapped by depression or driven by anxiety, whether you're worried about an aging parent's memory loss or a spouse's mood swings, Straight Talk gives you the knowledge you need now and anticipates what you'll need in the future. It helps you make well-informed choices about this critical aspect of health and well-being--for yourself and those you love.
About the Author
James Morrison, MD, is a psychiatrist who has treated over 15,000 people with mental health concerns. He was educated at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and is currently Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland. His acclaimed books for professionals include
The First Interview,
DSM-IV Made Easy,
When Psychological Problems Mask Medical Disorders, and
Interviewing Children and Adolescents (coauthored with Thomas F. Anders).
Table of Contents
Introduction
Part I Seeking Help
Chapter 1. Taking Charge of Your Care: What Mental Health Clinicians Do
Chapter 2. Will Treatment Help Me?
Chapter 3. Where Can I Go for Help?
Chapter 4. What Is My Role in Treatment?
Part II Treatment Options
Chapter 5. Introduction to Psychiatric Drugs
Chapter 6. Antidepressants
Chapter 7. Mood Stabilizers
Chapter 8. Drugs to Treat Anxiety and Insomnia
Chapter 9. Antipsychotic Medications
Chapter 10. Drugs for Dementia
Chapter 11. Medications to Treat Substance Abuse
Chapter 12. Nondrug Physical Treatments
Chapter 13. Psychotherapy
Chapter 14. Behavior Modification
Part III Mental Disorders
Chapter 15. Depression
Chapter 16. Mania and Mood Swings
Chapter 17. Anxiety and Panic
Chapter 18. Phobias
Chapter 19. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Chapter 20. ObsessiveCompulsive DisorderChapter 21. Somatization Disorder
Chapter 22. Psychosis and Schizophrenia
Chapter 23. Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
Chapter 24. Eating and Sleeping Disorders
Chapter 25. Substance Abuse
Appendix A Resources
Appendix B Medication Generic and Trade Names
Index
About the Author