Dr. Brinen’s new book “Living Well With Psychosis” offers practical strategies for individuals managing psychosis, emphasizing that people can live good lives after a mental health diagnosis. The work combines applicable skills with reflective worksheets, written in an encouraging tone that assumes strength rather than fragility in those with lived experience of psychosis.
Recovery-Oriented Approach
The book draws on recovery-oriented cognitive therapy, which blends the message that good lives are possible with mental health conditions alongside specific therapeutic principles. Research has shown that this therapy improves hope and encourages steps toward recovery in people with mental health conditions when compared to treatment as usual. The approach has been integrated across mental health treatment settings, from state hospitals to specialized programming for young adults experiencing a first episode of psychosis. Researchers have extended these principles beyond mental health to individuals recovering from other conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, finding improvements in quality of life and life expectancy.
Addressing Trauma and Connection
Dr. Brinen tackles core aspects of life including trauma, which is common among people with psychotic disorders. One study reported that 38% of surveyed participants with a psychotic disorder had PTSD, with an additional 37% showing subthreshold symptoms. Modern evidence shows that when applied effectively, people with both psychosis and PTSD can benefit greatly from trauma therapy. The book emphasizes connection and relationships, acknowledging that “Beyond the survival benefits of connection, friends and lovers provide joy and enrichment. They color in and highlight the stories of our lives.” The work includes practical tools such as activity scheduling and explores real-life worries alongside evidence-based strategies for managing them.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://us.headtopics.com/news/insights-from-dr-brinen-s-new-book-living-well-with-78554384