This book was published in 2014. Why is this significant? Because since its release, there have been significant advancements in both psychiatric research and treatment. Some of the book’s arguments, therefore, may no longer be as relevant or applicable today.

As a psychiatrist, I found it particularly challenging to read this book after spending years in medical school, only to encounter a psychotherapist claiming that psychiatry is doing more harm than good. Naturally, I was intrigued when I first picked up this book.

At first, I found the book’s premise engaging, and some of the arguments were indeed thought-provoking. For instance, the criticism of classifying grief as a disorder struck a chord with me, especially since grief is not included as a mental health disorder in the latest DSM. That point felt valid, and I found myself agreeing with it.

The author also delves into the influence of capitalism on the psychiatric field, particularly focusing on the relationship between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers. He claims that the close ties between the two have led to a system where medication is often over-prescribed for profit. While I understand his concerns, I feel that this argument is somewhat overstated. As clinicians, we adhere to a strict ethical code, and our prescribing practices are guided by patient needs rather than any potential financial incentive. At times, it seemed like the author was trying to paint the entire field with a negative brush, as though every clinician were compromised by corporate interests. His perspective, while not entirely ungrounded, feels a bit far-fetched at times.

One of the more troubling aspects of this book is the author’s approach to research and evidence. It often seemed like he had cherry-picked data to support his arguments, sometimes distorting or oversimplifying complex issues. For instance, his discussion on epigenetics seemed flawed. Whether the author misunderstood the science behind it or is simply dismissing the established research in favor of his own views, I found his treatment of this topic particularly problematic. It left me questioning whether the author was genuinely informed or if he believed that only his viewpoint was valid.

What I find most difficult to forgive, however, is his example of a schizophrenia case that was supposedly "cured" by reading a book and adopting a positive mindset. This claim is not only misleading but dangerously irresponsible. Schizophrenia is a complex, lifelong condition that requires proper medical intervention, and the author’s portrayal of a quick fix based on self-help advice is not just inaccurate—it borders on harmful. At times, I couldn’t help but wonder if the author was perhaps on some crack while writing this book. 

Additionally, the overall tone of the book struck me as dismissive, particularly towards individuals suffering from mental health issues. While the author offers his critiques, he seems to neglect the real, lived experiences of those dealing with mental health conditions. His approach comes across as lacking empathy, which is deeply concerning for a book that aims to challenge the psychiatric establishment.

In conclusion, while this book is an entertaining

read with some thought-provoking points, I would caution readers to approach its conclusions with skepticism. The arguments presented may be compelling in some areas, but they require careful consideration and should be viewed in the context of a rapidly changing field. If you are a patient or someone seeking help for mental health issues, I recommend consulting with healthcare professionals and making decisions based on a thorough, well-rounded understanding of your options.