Useful publications
Classification manuals
DSM-5 – Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
American Psychiatric Association, 5th edition, 2013, 970 pages
The DSM is widely used by clinicians and researchers internationally to diagnose and classify mental disorders. The latest edition is DSM-5, 2013.
ICD-11 – International Classification of Diseases
World Health Organisation, 11th revision, 2022, 2498 pages
The ICD is an authoritative international source used to classify and report on diseases. It provides critical knowledge on the extent, causes and consequences of human disease and death worldwide.
Family and caregiver manuals
Rays of Hope – Learning about Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia Society of Canada, 5th edition 2020, 183 pages
A reference manual for families and caregivers. We have found this a particularly helpful resource, geared to family needs. Highly recommended.
I AM NOT SICK – I Don’t Need Help!
Dr Xavier Amador, 20th anniversary edition, 2020, 254 pages
This classic, first published in 2000, is a must-read guide for family members whose loved ones refuse treatment insisting there is nothing wrong with them. Very often their refusal is due to anosognosia, a debilitating symptom of severe mental illness, which prevents them from recognising that they have a brain disorder.
Dr Amador explains the LEAP communication strategy – Listen, Empathise, Agree and Partner – designed to win the trust of of persons with mental illness who lack insight, and to get them to accept the treatment they need.
Coping Skills for Carers
Family Support for Schizophrenia, Revised edition, 2022, 70 pages
The 2022 FSS edition of Coping Skills for Carers. Originally published as a print edition by Cape Support for Mental Health in 2008, this well-loved manual has provided a welcome source of practical information on a wide range of topics for families and carers of people living with schizophrenia. The revised edition is available as a free pdf.