Blink Publishing We Dont Use Words Like Crazy On the Frontline of Mental Health.

by Elliot Sweeney

Blink Publishing We Dont Use Words Like Crazy On the Frontline of Mental Health ABISBOOK Blink Publishing.

Genres: Nonfiction

304 pages, Hardcover

Published April 24, 2025

Reviews

[Archie Harding · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really raw and honest book. I’ve always been fascinated by mental health care and this really was an unfiltered insight. If I’m so honest it has made me rethink my desires to work in mental health care

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am consistently in awe of those who dedicate their lives to being on the frontline of some of the most vulnerable and unheard members of society and this novel by Elliot Sweeney is no different. Shining a light on so many shaded aspects of the human psyche, empathy, compassion, patience - this book explores life as a Mental Health Nurse. The good, the bad and the ugly. I think books like this, are truly part of the journey towards understanding and appreciating the hidden roles in our society that truly make it go round. If anyone has any other recommendations for similar books I’d love to hear them!

[Philip William · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot Sweeney has worked for 20 years as an NHS mental health nurse and uses this book to explain the job and the challenges that both he and his patients face.

The book is very good at giving us typical examples of the extreme mental health problems that are faced by some within Britain today. Elliot is realistic about the situations that he faces and does not try to cover up the failures of some members of staff or the NHS but remains in love with the concept of mental health nursing and the NHS and at times he is funny and eloquent with his use of the English language.

This book does not present any solution to the increasing mental health problems that are being faced within Britain today (other than more money is needed) but to be fair to be Elliot the book does not seek to give an answer to this.

[Emma Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful.

As someone who works in a mental health hospital, I knew how all of these stories were going to end. I say that not as a negative but rather to shows how accurate and honest this book is. Nothing about this feels exaggerated or unrealistic.

What stood out to me was how you could feel the author’s love and desire to continuing working as a mental health nurse but austerity has just made it so challenging. Each chapter something gets stripped away and yet there is the expectation to uphold the same standards. The section on CAMHS hit me the hardest.

I recommend to anyone with any kind of interest in the subject of mental health. Especially those working in the sector that may think they are going a bit ‘crazy’.

[Kayleigh Lafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautifully written ! capturing the realist moments of traing, qualifying as a mental health nurse. Address and giving a hauntingly accurate account of the struggles NHS mental health nurses face... as a seasoned HCA/NA and a student nurse due to qualify in 5 months time I am greatful and applaud the realness of Elliot's writings 🤍

[Angela Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot walks us through some of his experiences as a psychiatric nurse introducing some of his charges. Moving, disturbing account honestly delivered. Some eye opening stories of how the mental health act deals with people.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent insight into life as a mental health nurse and very readable. I enjoyed this book.

[Wren McNally · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super Frank. Refreshing and insightful.