It is estimated that one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health condition during their lifetime. Increasing numbers of children, teenagers and young adults are also experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression - and some are even driven to suicide.
Dr. Stephen Critchlow is a consultant psychiatrist with many years' experience in the field of mental health. Based on popular talks he has given over the last four years to the general public, Mindful of the Light presents an invaluable resource for all who are living with mental health issues, whether as sufferers or carers.
Drawing on his rich, professional knowledge, he offers clear, accurate information about the causes and symptoms of a wide range of problems together with helpful insights into everyday struggles along with practical steps that can be taken. He also looks at how the Christian faith relates to mental health and the role it can play for those going through the difficult and stormy times mental health conditions can cause.
He writes: 'These days, Christianity tends to be sidelined in the public arena...However, to find out about the beliefs and spiritual support structures of an individual is an important part of psychiatric assessment and this is often neglected.' Clearly structured, Mindful of the Light contains comprehensive coverage of mental health issues from anxiety through to schizophrenia and suicide.
For each condition he discusses, Stephen includes a separate chapter on how to offer spiritual help to sufferers. Jeff Lucas adds: 'This warm, compassionate, practical and beautifully written book will bring help and hope to many who battle with conflicting and crippling emotions.' This vital resource is strongly recommended for those involved in counselling, the medical profession and for anyone who desires to have a greater understanding of mental health and some of the very real issues that so many are wrestling with today.