Me, Myself, and Them: A Firsthand Account of One Young Person's Experience with Schizophrenia

by Kurt Snyder, Linda Wasmer Andrews, Raquel E. Gur

During his second semester at college, Kurt Snyder became convinced that he was about to discover a fabulously important mathematical principle, spending hours lost in daydreams about numbers and symbols. In time, his thoughts took a darker turn, and he became preoccupied with the idea that cars were following him, or that strangers wanted to harm him. Kurt's mind had been hijacked by schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder that typically strikes during the late teen or young adult years.
In Me, Myself, and Them , Kurt, now an adult, looks back from the vantage point of recovery and eloquently describes the debilitating changes in thoughts and perceptions that took hold of his life during his teens and twenties. As a memoir, this book is remarkable for its unvarnished look at the slow and difficult process of coming back from severe mental illness. Yet Kurt's memoir is only half the story. With the help of psychiatrist Raquel E. Gur, M.D., Ph.D., and veteran science writer Linda Wasmer Andrews, Kurt paints the big picture for others affected by adolescent schizophrenia. Drawing on the latest scientific and medical evidence, he explains how to recognize warning signs, where to find help, and what treatments have proved effective. Kurt also offers practical advice on topics of particular interest to young people, such as suggestions on managing the illness at home, school, and work, and in relationships with family and friends.
Part of the Adolescent Mental Health Initiative series of books written specifically for teens and young adults, My, Myself, and Them offers hope to young people who are struggling with schizophrenia, helping them to understand and manage the challenges of this illness and go on to lead healthy lives.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Mental Health, Mental Illness, Memoir, Biography, Self Help

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Zoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read this book for my psychology course and I found it very deep and emotional also helpful to understand what people who have this have to go through unfortunately

[Kendra · Rating 3 out of 5]

More of a self-help for those recently diagnosed with schizophrenia than a memoir. The book does have some helpful resources for mental health providers or those affected by schizophrenia.

[Kylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very quick, easy read. As a mental health worker, it was a nice reminder of what our patients deal with and how this illness develops over time. Great read for a newly diagnosed individual as it gives a basic outline of meds, hospitalization, and of course the authors personal story to show how he overcame hallucinations, delusions, etc.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book that tells the tale of one young man’s journey with schizophrenia. It describes the ups and downs of the disease that often resembles that of a roller coaster ride. The book is written for young adults and is easy to understand. The author is brutally honest is his descriptions, but makes sure the reader understands that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Throughout the book there are references, definitions of places, and concepts he refers to. In this way no misunderstanding occurs between the author and the reader. At the end of the book there is an extra amount of information provided in order to reach out to those whom might need help.

This book was amazing. As a parent to a young child that was just diagnosed, I was very happy to read this. There seems to be a stigma that is given to those whom are diagnosed with mental illness and especially toward those that suffer from schizophrenia. The author gave a realistic portrayal of what it is like to have this disease, but showed that it is not always bad. The movies, book, and the general population have stereotyped a group of people that they do not understand. The author has provided a wonderful example of how a person can rise above the label and soar to success. I believe that my child with time shall do the same. I strongly feel that it is very important for all parents and educators to seek out information for their children who are diagnosed. Books such as this one are tools against the oncoming madness and keys to the success that they can have. I highly recommend this book to all and I am grateful to the author for taking the time to share his experience. It was well worth it and much appreciated!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting book that mixes medical facts about schizophrenia in with a true account of an individual with schizophrenia. There are also a few accounts from others who have dealt with schizophrenia. The book is written for Americans, as it refers to treatments and groups local to America.

My one point of contention: the author mentions the rate and risk of abuse in schizophrenia sufferers, and explains some people won't take no for an answer, followed immediately with how to prevent getting into the situation. It makes no allowances for the (majority) people who do a lot of things right and are still raped or abused. It also makes no mention of the right to press charges or how to seek help, and glosses over the need for treatment of likely PTSD after such an incident. While taking defensive actions to prevent what one can is important, it feels a little like victim blaming and does a poor job of helping victims get the help and understanding they need. It's clearly a large topic for a book focused on other issues, but it does a shallow job of pointing those in need in the right direction here.

[Nicole Schmitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Me, Myself, and Them is a nonfiction book giving a first-hand account of schizophrenia. It also has a large amount of information about treatment for the mental illness. Whether you have schizophrenia or are just interested to learn more, it contains some useful information. It cleared up a lot of misconceptions that I had about schizophrenia. The only downside is that this book is quite old now, so some parts of it might be quite outdated.

While I do not have schizophrenia, I have been interested in mental illnesses for quite a while now. I thought it would be good to educate myself. I was very intrigued by the author's story. It gave me on schizophrenia that I did not have before. I'm giving this book 3.5 stars, just because it's most likely outdated by now. But besides that, it is a good book.

I would recommend this book for anyone who has or thinks that they have schizophrenia. Or just for someone interested in the topic

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exceptional mental health information. Each chapter is split into the author's personal experience, followed by additional medical information such as explanations, treatments and alternate sources of help.

No, I don't have schizophrenia, but after reading symptomatic behaviors like abandoning relationships with friends and family, becoming a homebody, and not participating in things you used to do, as a writer I thought, "That's not so bad. I might actually like that." Maybe I'm worse off than I thought.

[Elocin]

If you are looking for a book on cases of schizophrenia that go down into deep extremes, involving permanent hospitalization, don't read this book. If you are looking to find out about real and more common cases of schizophrenia or how to help yourself or someone you know with the disease, then this book is perfect for you. Information on common symptoms, medication, help services and ways of treatment, all offer great help to anyone suffering from this illness and everyone who wishes to know about how to manage symptoms out of pure interest for psychological disorders.

[Emilee With Two E’s · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book very interesting. It was cool to read from an adolescent perspective of schizophrenia. The things that Kyle had to endure seem horrifying. I am glad he decided to write this book in a way to help raise awareness about schizophrenia. This book could also be of great use to teens and young adults who may have recently been diagnosed with schizophrenia. It’s a beacon of hope for them and helps them realize that things will get better; you just have to work through the touph parts.

[Meaghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent how-to guide for dealing with schizophrenia, whether you have the illness or yourself or just know someone who does. It describes the various facets of the disease using multiple first-hand accounts, and gives the options for treatment. I would recommend this to anyone who has just been diagnosed with schizophrenia, has a loved one who was diagnosed, or (like me) is just curious about the illness.

[Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

My son has Schizophrenia and I was looking for a book that was written from the perspective of someone who has this illness. The author wrote this book when he was 29 in 2007. My son is just turning 37 and has been dealing with schizophrenia for 10 years now. I admire his strength and courage and love him to bits - this is a good book to help all those involved, the patient and their family members; most informative.

[Barrymore Tebbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up at my local library while doing research into schizophrenia. Kurt Snyder's first person account is heartbreaking; the commentary about this often mysterious and misunderstood mental illness included at the end of each chapter helps put Kurt's experience into perspective. For anyone wanting a quick introduction to schizophrenia, this short volume provides both personal insight and clinical commentary in an easy to read format.

[N · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book makes for an interesting and informative introduction to schizophrenia. There's a sterile, obviously-ghostwritten gloss to it, however. So although it purports to be a 'firsthand account', there's not much personality to it. The result is a bit like a rehearsed speech on 'how schizophrenia affected me', as opposed to a candid chat over a beer. A good book, but not quite what I signed up for.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely great book. I learned a great deal about schizophrenia. The way the book was set up was really really effective, combining the testimony of young man with schizophrenia with notes from a mental health professional who explains everything. I have a friend is schizophrenic and I feel like I understand her much better now. I would strongly recommend this to anyone with schizophrenia or who has a friend or loved one with schizophrenia.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

[close] A very good account of the life of someone living with schizophrenia, and of the illness itself. Very descriptive from both a personal and medical point of view, with each chapter divided between the two. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in learning more about this illness. [close]

[Kym's Open Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

True story about a man suffering from schizophrenia. The first half of each chapter was him looking back on his life and sharing his experiences then the second half of each chapter was a Dr. that explained everything that had happened to him. Truly fascinating.
However, no one should have to live that like that, it was heartbreaking.

[Emilee (Fantastical Paper Realm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for my English Research Paper. I expected a fairly boring but informative book, but this book is fascinating! It really drew me and made writing my paper something to really enjoy! I loved how there are other peoples accounts of their experiences sprinkled through out book. It is a great balance of all the facts and statistics you want to know, and this mans fascinating story!

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent depiction of progression of symptoms relating to schizophrenia. This is a useful tool for anyone interested in a personal and scientific account of those living with a mental illness. Overall, useful and informative read.

[Anna Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a combination of first person narrative about their road from diagnosis of bipolar disorder as a teen through recovery, and educational information about the disorder including current treatment options. It is well written for anyone interested in or affected by this mood disorder.

[Sarah King]

I was expecting a memoir, but instead I got part memoir, part explanation of schizophrenia. This was geared towards kids and young adults who have never heard of this disease, not someone who's read all about it and wants to know about the author's experience.

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the story told from the author's life and viewpoint really helpful. The extra stories thrown in here and there also helped. The resources are a bit dated but with some research you could find the links to them.

[Elizabeth Garbutt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was more of an informational book than a story book. The author includes his stories about some episodes here and there, but it's mostly facts. I really liked the book, it was interesting to learn about something that's such a misconception. Kind of boring though.

[Mark Stevens, ThD · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a Mental Health Professional this book was a very good tool in helping me understand Schizphrenia.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coherent memoir of schizophrenia interleaved with guidance aimed at younger people with schizophrenia. Fluent and insightful, but aimed at the adolescent and young adult.

[Chelsea Fredrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good book! I was hooked from the beginning :)

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative, easy to read and concise. Information is mostly basic understanding, but helpful to those struggling with recent diagnosis and their family members.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked how this was written by someone who has battled schizophrenia and has come out on the other side. It is a book filled with hope and great insight. Thank you, Kurt.

[Jodielayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

So educational!

[Jessada Karnjana · Rating 5 out of 5]

ด้วยเหตุผลอะไรก็ตาม ถ้าคุณนึกครึ้มขึ้นมาอยากทำความรู้จัก schizophrenia หรือโรคจิตเภท ขอแนะนำเล่มนี้ครับ ยิ่งถ้าความอยากของคุณมีมูลเหตุมาจากปัญหาสุขภาพ ไม่ว่าจะเป็นของตัวเองหรือของคนใกล้ชิดด้วยแล้ว ก็ยิ่งอยากแนะนำเป็นพิเศษ Me, Myself, and Them เป็นหนังสือที่เสนอข้อมูลเกี่ยวกับโรคจิตเภทได้สมบูรณ์และครอบคลุมรอบด้านสำหรับบุคคลทั่วไป อ่านจบแล้วอยากให้มีหนังสือแบบนี้บ้างในประเทศไทย เพราะข้อมูลจำเพาะเกี่ยวกับศูนย์ช่วยเหลือต่าง ๆ สำหรับผู้อ่านต่างชาติจะไม่มีประโยชน์เท่าไรต่อพวกเรา ผู้เขียนหนังสือมี 3 คน คนแรก Kurt Snyder เล่าประสบการณ์ของตัวเองในฐานะผู้ป่วย เรื่องเล่าอยู่ในส่วน My Story ของแต่ละบท ส่วนนี้อ่านสนุก ราวกับอ่านนิยาย (คงไม่บาปใช่ไหมที่ผมจะสนุกบนความเจ็บปวดของคุณ และเห็นใจในความโชคร้าย ชิงชังความชั่วช้าของโรคอันนี้ที่เกิดขึ้นกับคุณ) Kurt เขียนเล่าแบบจริงใจตรงไปตรงมาเหลือเกิน อันที่จริงนักเขียนนิยายคนไหนอยากบรรยายอารมณ์ความรู้สึกของตัวละครที่เป็นโรคจิตเภท น่าจะเก็บเกี่ยวข้อมูลจากประสบการณ์ของ Kurt ได้เยอะครับ หลอนได้ใจไปเลย จิตเภททำให้การรับรู้ความจริงบิดเบือนไปจนเจ้าตัวมองไม่เห็นความไม่สมเหตุสมผลในการรับรู้นั้น ทั้งคิดว่าตัวเองถูกสอดแนม ตามล่าโดย CIA, FBI รวมไปถึงการคิดว่า CIA บางพวกคิดว่าเขาเป็นพระเจ้า พ่อแม่ของเขาเป็นตัวโคลน เขาสามารถทำให้เวลาเดินช้าลง คนที่เข้ามาคุยกับเขาจะต้องเป็นสายลับที่พยายามส่งข้อมูลให้บางอย่าง เขาถูกล้างสมอง ฯลฯ ประสบการณ์การกินยา ผลข้างเคียง และความช่วยเหลือที่ได้จากคนรอบข้างจนกลับเข้าสู่สังคมได้อีกครั้ง คนที่สองเป็นหมอและโปรเฟสเซอร์ผู้เชี่ยวชาญจิตเภท Raquel E. Gur เธอจะเขียนส่วน The Big Picture ในแต่ละบท เพื่อให้ความรู้เชิงวิชาการเกี่ยวกับโรค การวินิจฉัย การรักษา ยา ข้อความปฏิบัติต่าง ๆ ของผู้ป่วย ส่วนนี้มีประโยชน์มากสำหรับผู้ที่คิดว่าตัวเองอาจจะป่วยแต่ยังไม่แน่ใจ หรือผู้คนใกล้คิด คนสุดท้ายคือ Linda Wasmer Andrews นักข่าว เขียนในกรอบเล็ก ๆ กระจายแทรกอยู่ทั่วหนังสือจากการสัมภาษณ์ผู้ป่วยจิตเภทคนอื่น ๆ หนังสืออ่านสนุกมาก หากผมบังเอิญได้รู้จักใครที่อาจจะเป็นโรคจิตเภทสักคน คงยื่นหนังสือเล่มนี้ให้ บอกให้ไปหาหมอ และถ้าหมอวินิจฉัยว่าเป็น ก็ทำใจยอมรับว่าตัวเองหลอนซะ กินยา หายไว ๆ กลับไปมีความสุขในโลกอีกครั้ง

[Evo Tavale · Rating 5 out of 5]

From reading this book,I learn that there is much more to a person than one may think.Before,I would judge juvenile delinquents and think of them as nothing more than losers but when I read this book my mind completely changed.These teenagers had so much potential and in my opinion could've been prevented from doing what they did to get themselves in juvenile hall. Predominantly they've all came from tough backgrounds and I strongly believe the way they group up has contributed greatly to the life choices they have made.unfortunately these teenagers didn't have role models or any one to look up to.Another thing I learned was that they were not getting the help they needed.Whether it was counseling or therapy those services were not offered to them and they could've been extremely beneficial.These services could've help them improve their lives and helped them deal with the great amount of stress they experienced.Most importantly,I learned that as a future social workers I'm mostly likely going to be dealing with teenagers in similar situations,therefore I must be patient,open minded and free of all judgement.Personally,I enjoyed it because it brought greater insight as to what these teenagers go through.In my own opinion they weren't bad kids,they were just troubled.This book has also helped me realize that there is same good in every individual no more stress.