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Linda Naomi Katz was born on March 21, 1969, by the name of Linda Naomi Baron, raised as a modern orthodox Jew, where mental illness has been a factor throughout most of her life. Over the years she faced many challenges difficult to overcome, but because of her faith in God and Judaism, she was able to achieve recovery. As part of her recovery, she became a member with the National Alliance for Mentally Ill and has published articles for New York City Voices, a newspaper for those with mental illness that help fight against stigma, share other people's recovery stories, and fight for legislation on mental health issues. Soon after, she found employment working for agencies that help others with mental illness to achieve their own recovery. Today, Linda is married, a college graduate, and volunteers her time as a mental health advocate.
Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite
Linda Naomi Katz, the author of "Surviving Mental Illness" begins her book by defining mental illness. Some mental illnesses are congenital, some are brought on by chemical imbalances, and others come from a psychological upset and some from an emotional upset such as a divorce, death or substance abuse. Mental illness carries a deep shame and humiliation to both the victim and the family. Many “normal” people will shun the mentally ill. I suspect it is out of ignorance. They do not know how to react to the bizarre behavior of the schizophrenic, the highs and lows of the bipolar, or the discouragement of being around a depressed person. It is to be remembered that they cannot control their moods or emotions. "Surviving Mental Illness" focuses on mood disorders: depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. She defines them and offers readers a guide for dealing with the illness. The section on bipolar drew my attention for I know more than one person with this disorder. She did an excellent job describing the illness and the actions of the victim. Those suffering from any of the three disorders are not capable of thinking logically. They take medicine and begin to feel better so they stop taking the meds or they miss the highs and stop taking meds so that they can achieve those highs.
Katz’s story is one that will hit close to home with many. It will touch the hearts of all the readers. She tells her story in a simple, easy to understand manner. This book is not meant to be a text book although I strongly suggest those in the medical profession read it. It is written for the lay person in the hope of offering them encouragement and help. This book is well-written, informative and touching. I highly recommend this book.
