Heather Castillo

The Reality of Recovery in Personality Disorder

Heather Castillo

Exploring the process of recovery from personality disorder, and how this can be achieved, this research-based but highly readable book describes successful community-based ways to support people after diagnosis and the wider implications for mental ill health. Taking a close look at what it means to be diagnosed with personality disorder, the author considers how people with mental health issues are treated by society at large and within mental health services. She highlights problems and gaps in services, and how stigma surrounding mental health disorders can negatively affect the treatment an individual receives. Many first-hand accounts by people diagnosed with personality disorder offer a real perspective into what it is like to live with mental health issues, challenging stereotypes and providing much-needed insight into their needs. Research from The Haven, an innovative community-based project supporting people through recovery from personality disorder, offers ground-breaking ways to care for and meet the needs of people with major mental health issues in a positive and creative way. Essential reading for mental health professionals, people diagnosed with personality disorder, and their families.

Personality Disorder

Heather Castillo

Personality Disorder (PD) is one of the most difficult psychological conditions to classify and treat and in the past literature on the subject has tended to neglect the invaluable viewpoint of sufferers themselves. Drawing on extensive research carried out in conjunction with service users, Heather Castillo seeks to adjust this imbalance and looks at the classification and treatment of PD from the service users' viewpoint. This book emphasises the need for health professionals to reassess their approach to the condition and allows those with PD to effectively define themselves and their illness. With a wide range of case study material and analysis, this book is essential reading for mental health professionals, workers in the voluntary and forensic sectors and service users themselves.