Customer Reviews

Staying Sane: How to Make Your Mind Work for You

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A guide written for the layman by a notable academic and "celebrity" Psychiatrist.

The book was written by Raj Persaud in a very user friendly manner that manages to evade confusing "psychobabble" and explains technical matters in simple terms. Case studies are provided that are based on Dr Persauds own experience and he has the unusual position of being both a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist which gives him a unique standpoint.

Subject matters are well researched and argued with a bibliography for every source of information gathered in the course of writing this book, which points the reader in the right direction for further reading. It is an ideal starting point for anyone with any interest in mental health and looking to bolster their mental health. Raj Persuad starts the book by explaining the concept of mental health and his view that everyone lies on a "spectrum" of mental health.

Current treatments are discussed such as "cognitive therapy" in an easy to read format that can be used by anyone in keeping with the spirit of the book which is to "help people help themselves". Dr Persaud is making a brave leap with this book in encouraging people to stray away from using doctors and therapists (unless the situation is very dire) and to help themselves. The validity of traditional ways of improving and maintaining mental health are discussed such as maintaining a network of friends, a religious / spiritual outlook on life as well as keeping the physical body fit and healthy.

In short it is a subject area that should concern everyone.

It is worth every penny and i often go back and dip into it as a reference book.

This fascinating and readable book sets out a new strategy for preventive rather than reactive mental health care. Having been through the counselling mill myself I read it with keen interest. Did you know that the Maudsley screens all its patients for vitamin and mineral deficiencies? I could certainly have done with this simple test before spending thousands on psychotherapy. I share Dr Persaud's doubts about the talikng cure and I like his action centred approach. i like his questionaires although it comes as no surprise to see he has a regular column in Cosmo . I could have done with more practical exercises maybe he'll do these in his next book

There are few books whose title honestly reflect their contents.This is one such book. It greatly repays reading. A fine reference book on most psychological hindrances.

Raj Persaud has the knowledge of an expert on psychology and combines this with the skill to explain complicated psychological issues to persons like you and me.

His message is clear: If you want to stay sane in todays society, stop focussing on the gym and start getting involved developing various fields of interest, like having friends with different backgrounds, hobbies besides your 9 to 5 job and start thinking about how to cope with stress and crises when it hits you.

Worth reading.

January 2003
Münster, Germany
Joep Maussen

Dr Raj Persaud is an internationally recognized expert in the personal development industry. When he talks people listen. If you are interested in self-improvement I highly recommend you reading all of Dr Persaud's books.

Zev Saftlas, Author of Motivation That Works: How to Get Motivated and Stay Motivated

Dr Raj Persaud is an internationally recognized expert in the personal development industry. When he talks people listen. If you are interested in self-improvement I highly recommend you reading all of Dr Persaud's books.

Zev Saftlas, Author of Motivation That Works: How to Get Motivated and Stay Motivated