What a Life Can Be: One Therapist's Take on Schizo-Affective Disorder.

by Carolyn Dobbins

A fascinating look into the world of schizo-affective disorder which, at times, is funny, heartbreaking, but above all uplifting. Dr. Carolyn Dobbins describes the onset and progression of this debilitating disease and gives readers hope. The book breaks through the stigma as mental illness affects us all. Included at the end are facts about serious mental illness, the 6 A's of self help and Dr Dobbins' message to her counseling colleagues who may be surprised, as all readers will be, by the ending. In an advance review, the National Alliance on Mental Illness said this book is told in an unorthodox but very effective manner." and that "people are more than their illness". Dr E Fuller Torrey, author of Surviving Schizophrenia, said "an inspiration for all who have ever experienced psychosis" Dr. Thomas G Burish, a professor of psychology and Provost of Notre Dame University said this book is "powerful and revealing, and provides a unique insight into chronic mental disease". He added that the book is "a probing, liberating story"

Genres: Psychology, Mental Health, Nonfiction

226 pages, Paperback

First published October 16, 2011

Reviews

[dbp · Rating 3 out of 5]

Predictable - in that she is both the “secret client” and therapist. Not well written, in need of serious editing.

I applaud her at 1) the method of story telling- dual perspectives 2) at telling this disorder from an insiders perspective

My problems are 1) downplaying the hardships with her accomplishments doesn’t show what all we are capable of like I think she wants it to, I feel more like it makes the rest of us look like we’re faking it because - if she can still manage all of that than why can’t we? if supposedly have the “worst mental health disorder” known to man. So I think she failed in that aspect - but that’s my opinion.
As a plain reader, not someone extremely familiar with SZA, I would just find this story highly illogical, very doubtful and plain unreasonable. If she wanted to bring help to the cause to the mainstream society I would have made it more palatable/believable.

Interesting nonetheless. Congrats for writing a memoir, that’s a feat in itself for anyone.

[Epiphanie Bloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I give this five stars on account of the bravery it has required to write. Tracing a compelling journey through life, dealing with hardship of the schizoaffective disorder variety, Carolyn offers a relatable, compassionate and kind voice.

[Sandra Yuen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carolyn writes with sensitivity, confidence, sincerity, and great perceptiveness. She acknowledges the problems of disclosure because of stigma and ignorance but also the value in openness to help others. She skillfully explores schizo-affective disorder from the point of view of the mental health consumer, therapist, and society — the inside and the outside. There are many layers in her writing which intertwine thoughts, emotions, experiences, maturity, and acceptance. I agree with her belief that mental illness needn't block one from education, paid work, volunteering or creating purpose in life. Carolyn recognizes the individuality of people with mental illness and the importance of hope and empathy. I admire her ability to rise above adversity and excel in so many ways.

Sandra Yuen MacKay, author of My Schizophrenic Life