MALADY OF THE MIND

An intimate history of schizophrenia, based on longstanding relationships with patients and with other practitioners and theorists, by the renowned Chair of Columbia's prestigious Department of Psychology -- offering key insights on treatment, diagnosis, and ultimately a profoundly hopeful take on preventing the development of the disease.

Many myths have obscured our understanding of schizophrenia, but the most significant misconception about the disease is that it remains a dark mystery for which there is no effective treatment, and that there is no hope for those afflicted. The reality couldn't be more different: today's treatments are game-changing - and often life-saving. An innovative model of disease management combining medication and psychosocial services has given us the means to contain the consequences, and even prevent the onset, of this disorder.

In this biography of schizophrenia, Dr. Jeff Lieberman shows the path to these major advances in treatment. Along the way, A Once Malignant Malady winds through how the complexity of the brain, the checkered history of psychiatry, and how centuries of stigma have impeded scientific and social progress. The current aspiration of researchers is apply the early detection and intervention strategy to the disease before the onset of psychotic symptoms -- effectively preventing the outbreak of schizophrenia.

Through case studies, history, and accessible science writing, A Once Malignant Malady tells the story of the past, present, and future of schizophrenia.

Jeffrey A. Lieberman, MD, is the Lawrence C. Kolb Professor and Chairman of Psychiatry at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and Director of the New York State Psychiatric Institute. He recently ended his term as President of the American Psychiatric Association, and in 2000 was elected to the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine. He also is a world-renowned expert on the prevention (yes), detection and treatment of schizophrenia.