Locked Ward, The

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Dennis O’Donnell started work as an orderly in the Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit of a large hospital in Scotland in 2000. In his daily life he encountered fear, violence and despair but also a considerable amount of care and compassion. Recounting the stories of the patients he worked with, and those of his colleagues on the ward, he examines: ·the different major mental disorders - their symptoms and manifestations ·the various methods of treatment - medication, therapy and conversation ·how religion, sex, wealth, health and drugs can bear influence on mental health ·the prevailing attitudes to psychiatric illness – the authorities, the professionals & society What emerges is a document of humanity and humour, a remarkable memoir that sheds light on a world that still remains largely unknown and hugely feared.

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Dennis O'Donnell was born in Scotland and attended Edinburgh University where he read English. He was an English teacher for many years before leaving to become a psychiatric orderly. He now lives in West Lothian.