Asylum

by Greg Ralls

An Australian citizen would have to be mad to claim asylum in a foreign country. Professional engineer Greg Ralls did just that after a two-year taper off a powerful psychiatric drug. Diagnosed with schizophrenia but perfectly stable when medicated, he became involved with the Hearing Voices Movement. Fearing the possibility of post-Global Financial Crisis unemployment in the midst of a mining industry downturn, and identifying as a voice hearer, he was gripped by delusion as the influence of the drug wore off and bizarrely believed his future lay in England. This is the true story of Ralls’ dramatic unravelling, and the seven weeks he spent in London as an asylum seeker, locked in Europe's largest immigration removal centre.

110 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2017

Reviews

[John Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Asylum over a few days of intensive reading. I was really able to relate to Greg, having also spent time detained in the UK medical system.

Greg writes with an honesty which I can relate to. And he draws the reader in with colourful descriptions of his time in detention. I'm already a big fan.

[Ruth Klein · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read

This should be read and understood by everyone to understand the situation of immigrants around the globe. I highly recommend this book!