Abstract

Once upon a time, there lived a happy family called the Maitlands. Iain, the father, was a writer. Tracey, the mother, worked at a nearby school. They had three bright and charming children, Michael, Sophie and Adam. It looked like the perfect family life.

Until October 2012, when Iain received a message. Michael had been taken to hospital. Years of depression, anxiety and anorexia had taken their toll, and he had pneumonia and a collapsed lung. The doctors weren't sure if he would make it.

Told with humour and frankness through Michael's diary entries and Iain's own reflections, Out of the Madhouse charts Michael's journey to recovery from entering the Priory and returning home, to becoming a mental health ambassador for young people. Sharing tips and techniques that have helped them and others to self-manage, this is an essential resource for anyone experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD and similar issues.

Out of the Madhouse confronts the shocking bleakness of mental illness head on. Michael's diary of his battle to equip himself with both the tools and the will required to rejoin something approaching mainstream existence is sobering ... and Iain's tips and explanations are a big positive.
Charlie Mortimer, Author of 'Dear Lupin' & 'Lucky Lupin'
I love this book; profoundly moving, beautifully written and above all incredibly important. I read it in one sitting, often nodding, often crying and ultimately I was left feeling wonderfully hopeful.
James Withey, founder of The Recovery Letters project, editor of 'The Recovery Letters'
The Maitlands provide a brave, retrospective recount of a socially sensitive topic, where its strength lies in the powerful nature of the book's dual perspective. An honest and touching approach with advice grounded in invaluable, personal experience. Out Of The Madhouse is an excellent exploration of the phenomenology of mental illness and its wider impact.
Joshua Fletcher Psychotherapist & Author of 'Anxiety: Panicking about Panic'
This reflective book presents Michael's recovery from the multiple clinical effects emanating from abject low self-worth and loneliness. Whilst both traditional treatment as well as self-help and lifestyle strategies have helped him, the overriding ingredients that stand out in making positive change and enhancing resilience are the warmth of his connections, both family and friends, and the power of communication - spoken, written and art.
Dr Nihara Krause, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Founder & CEO stem4

Iain Maitland has been an author and journalist for over 30 years, and is an ambassador for the teenage mental health charity, Stem 4.

Michael Maitland suffered from clinical depression, anorexia and related issues for 10 years. He is now well into recovery and also an ambassador for Stem 4.