Tell Me I'm Here

This is a personal account written by journalist and author Anne Deveson about her son Jonathon who suffered schizophrenia. A non-clinical book that gives understanding of the difficulties faced by those living with someone afflicted by serious mental illness. Anne details the enormous obstacles with the health system that puts civil rights foremost before a persons health needs. Lacking support Anne endured many years of physical abuse from Jonathon as he believed she was the 'devil'. She also details the enormous strain this placed on her other children and her live-in lover. She felt immense sadness and emotion whilst watching helplessly as Jonathon slipped in an out of madness until his suicide in his twenties. Heartwrenching and sad.

The only thing I've come across in any media that rings true with my experience of having a schizophrenic brother. It gave me real insight into the trial my mother went through coming to terms with our situation. A really wonderful honest book that just tells you yes other people, other famiies suffered just like we did. Thank goodness we didn't lose anyone like Anne did.

This is a fabulous book that I have read a couple of times. I learnt such a lot about schizophrenia and about a mothers love. I must read this again as I am sure that now I am in a different stage of life I will see it differently again.

i had to read this book for an assignment and I'm usually fine
with the books they set but this one takes the cake...

I tried reading it and just could not read more than 3 chapters, the book feels like its just repeating itself all through the book.

Even though its raises awareness about the disease it is a very tedious and boring book.