Book Review: The Myth-Busting Guide to Psychosis: Demystifying Hallucinations, Delusions, and How to Live Well by Kai Conibear

Kai Conibear's The Myth-Busting Guide to Psychosis is a powerful and insightful book that achieves the rare feat of being both deeply educational and remarkably accessible. Aimed at demystifying psychosis, this book serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding what psychosis truly entails—what it feels like, how it impacts individuals differently, and, most importantly, how to live well with it. Conibear's approach is compassionate and inclusive, making this a vital resource not only for those living with psychosis but also for their loved ones and the clinicians who support them.

As a psychologist who has lived with psychosis since the age of 11, diagnosed at 21, I have long sought accessible material that could help my loved ones grasp the realities of my daily experiences. The Myth-Busting Guide to Psychosis fills this gap perfectly. Conibear’s writing is clear and approachable, making complex concepts understandable without ever feeling reductive. The book's potential to aid thousands of people with psychosis, along with their families, is immense.

What sets this book apart is its focus on lived experience. Conibear collaborates closely with individuals who have firsthand experience with psychosis, grounding the book in authenticity and ensuring that it resonates on a deeply personal level. This approach is something I am particularly passionate about in my own research. It's easy for clinicians to fall into the trap of viewing a diagnosis as a series of symptoms rather than understanding the unique, nuanced experiences of those living with it. Conibear’s inclusion of these voices makes the book not only reliable but also genuinely validating for readers like myself.

In addition to its educational value, the book provides practical advice on coping mechanisms, which is something I have found surprisingly scarce elsewhere. The strategies shared in this book have the potential to be life-changing, offering tools that I will likely carry with me forever.

Overall, I give The Myth-Busting Guide to Psychosis a resounding 5 out of 5 stars. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone living with psychosis, those who love someone with psychosis, and clinicians who work with individuals experiencing psychosis. This book is more than just a guide; it's a beacon of understanding and support in a field that desperately needs both.

‘The Myth-Busting Guide to Psychosis’ by Kai Conibear is an insightful and important read that seeks to demystify and clarify the often misunderstood topic of psychosis. Conibear's approach is both educational and empathetic, making it a valuable resource for those experiencing psychosis, their loved ones, and anyone interested in mental health.

Accuracy: ★★★★☆

The book appears to be highly accurate, backed by scientific research and clinical expertise. Conibear meticulously debunks common myths and misconceptions about psychosis, providing readers with factual and up-to-date information.

Perspective: ★★★★☆

Conibear offers a balanced and comprehensive perspective on psychosis. The author combines personal narratives, clinical insights, and practical advice, creating a well-rounded view that is both informative and compassionate.

Relevance: ★★★★☆

The relevance of this book is significant, given the widespread misunderstandings and stigma surrounding psychosis. By addressing these myths head-on, Conibear's work is crucial in promoting better understanding and awareness of mental health issues.

Engagement: ★★★☆☆

While the subject matter is critical, the engagement level can vary. Some sections are deeply engaging, particularly the personal stories and practical advice. However, certain clinical explanations may be dense for readers without a background in psychology or psychiatry.

Readability: ★★★★☆

The readability is good, with Conibear managing to present complex information in an accessible manner. The book is well-organized, with clear headings and subheadings that guide the reader through the content efficiently.

Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆

Enjoyment of the book will largely depend on the reader's interest in mental health. While the book is undeniably important and informative, its serious nature and clinical details may not appeal to everyone. However, for those invested in understanding psychosis, it is a valuable and enriching read.


‘The Myth-Busting Guide to Psychosis’ by Kai Conibear is a crucial resource that addresses and corrects many misconceptions about psychosis. With its accurate information, balanced perspective, and relevance to contemporary mental health discussions, it is a valuable addition to any reader's bookshelf. Though engagement and enjoyment may vary, the book's importance in fostering understanding and reducing stigma cannot be overstated.

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. These opinions are completely my own.

I have a family member with drug-induced psychosis and it can be very frightening at times. He tends to call and want me to stay on the phone with him and I rarely know what to do. I was extremely excited to find this book and I plan on getting it for the rest of my family. It's easy to comprehend and helps me with working with him to calm him down.