WHEN QUIETNESS CAME
A Neuroscientist’s Personal Journey with Schizophrenia
By Erin L. Hawkes, MSc
With an introduction by Dr. Richard O’Reilly
2012, Bridgeross Communications
I read this book twice because, though my own mental illness is different, I can relate to the institutions in my city, the struggle with meds and the erratic nature of making progress. Plus, I just found it to be a good read, leading me through the drama and setbacks of schizophrenia, myself having bipolar, I found it really interesting to discover things I’d never experienced, such as “deep meaning” and invisible, intrusive bugs.
Erin was able to look to herself as insight into her neurological studies at UBC, leading to a master’s degree and work in research. While still a student, she sometimes argued the reality of rats invading her neurons, self-harm as a treatment for them and neural regeneration following. Professors were patient with her as she achieved better control of her illness and achieved a professional detachment from her delusions. They also allowed her to leave because of breakdowns, then return to continue her studies.
The narrative covers her multiple relapses and psychiatric efforts, suicide attempts, resistance during admission, achieving her goals, stabilizing her mental health and getting married. She respected the need for drugs and psychiatry while also having certain critiques of the mental health system, noticing also how its improved since the years when she was in care.
As an artist, I can appreciate her mauve book cover, featuring her own expressionist artwork with few neurons for emphasis.
Review submitted by Philip Wright, Pathways Volunteer
August 2024
Pathway’s Library
There are over 100 books and articles in the Pathways office library for you to explore. Come by during office hours or contact us to see what other arrangements we can make to get the book to you. Are you interested in organizing our library resources or starting a Book Club? Contact us at programs@pathwayssmi.org