The Plight of Psychiatric Patients: A Biochemical Explanation

This book delves into the complex world of psychiatric illnesses that continue to evade full medical comprehension. Through poignant case histories, it puts a human face on mental afflictions that all too often defy satisfactory treatment. The author presents compelling narratives of patients wrestling with disorders ranging from depression to schizophrenia, capturing both the uniqueness of each individual’s experience as well as the common threads of chaos and suffering that bind them. Interwoven with these intimate portraits is an accessible examination of leading theories on the biochemical basis of mental illness.

Though significant knowledge gaps remain, the book brings to light important scientific insights into the genes, pathways, and neurotransmitters that may lie at the root of so much torment. Written with equal parts sensitivity, curiosity and rigor, this work illuminates the lingering mystery of the mind while paying tribute to those who struggle daily with its most devastating failures.

Hannah Haworth completed her PhD Thesis in the Department of Philosophy at Deakin University, Victoria, Australia. Her thesis was titled “Psychoanalysis and the Death Drive”.

Upon completion of her PhD, Robyn was appointed as an Associate Professor at the University of Wollongong, where she undertook theoretical research into the biochemical causation of mental illness. She wrote 34 journal articles published in Medical Hypotheses and Human Psychopharmacology. These published papers formed the basis of this book in conjunction with 50 years of Psychiatric Nursing experience, through which she recognised the very sad plight of psychiatric patients.