A unique book written by and for patients with schizophrenia, with contributions by psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and psychiatric rehabilitation workers. Diagnosis: Schizophrenia is intended to develop and strengthen the understanding of this disease, and to offer tools for patients, their families, and those who provide treatment. Chapters 1 through 15 contain personal stories of patients with schizophrenia, detailing their personal experiences with the first onset of the disease and coping with symptoms. Other chapters provide information on medication, social services, and rehabilitation services.

The disease is not fatal but few diagnoses have the capacity to instill as much fear in the hearts of patients and families. Here is a profoundly reassuring book that shows there can be life after a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The book includes thirty-five first-person accounts, along with chapters by professionals on a wide range of issues from hospitalization to rehabilitation. Jargon-free and technically accurate, the chapters are short and offer up-to-date information on medication, coping skills, social services, clinical research, and much more. Patients and their families can read the book from cover to cover or skip around and select topics as the need arises.