Psykhe: The Mental Health Crisis and How We Got Here

by R D C Crabtree

Mental health has become the health issue that dominates debate above all others, but it remains poorly understood. One in four people will suffer a mental health issue in the course of each year, and most of them will not seek help because of the stigma that still attaches to mental ill health. Suicide rates are growing year on year. But why? Are we in the grip of a modern epidemic? And if so, how did we get here? Psykhe throws new light on the history of mental health, offering a compelling description and analysis of how events from Classical times to the Capitalist Age have by turn shaped, reshaped, advanced, stultified and advanced again the course of human progress in this most difficult of medical disciplines. This is a gripping narrative that discusses not only how these events have defined today's attitudes towards mental ill health, and the modern day services with which we seek to treat it, but also ultimately offers a fresh perspective on one of life’s most fundamental questions—just what does it mean to live well as a human in the 21st century?

288 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Oumaima · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bold and thoughtful book that traces how we ended up in today’s mental health crisis. From ancient philosophy to capitalism and modern psychiatry, Crabtree walks you through how our systems of care (or lack thereof) were built and why they’re failing. It’s more of a cultural and historical deep dive than a practical guide, but it really makes you reflect. At times, I wished for more global or decolonial perspectives, but as a big-picture analysis, it’s interesting. If you’re into psychology, social critique, or just questioning the status quo, this will land.

[Cal Davie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really good reflection on factors that have driven the rise of mental health needs in the UK. Crabtree goes through the history of mental health, and tracks how we have addressed mental health, mental illness and suggests ways we can improve. Very readable and very much recommended to those new to the field.