In this astonishing and startling book, award-winning science and history writer Robert Whitaker investigates a medical mystery: Why has the number of disabled mentally ill in the United States over the past two decades? Interwoven with Whitaker’s groundbreaking analysis of the merits of psychiatric medications are the personal stories of children and adults swept up in this epidemic. As reveals, other societies have begun to alter their use of psychiatric medications and are now reporting much improved outcomes . . . so why can’t such change happen here in the United States? Why have the results from these long-term studies—all of which point to the same startling conclusion—been kept from the public? Our nation has been hit by an epidemic of disabling mental illness, and yet, as reveals, the medical blueprints for curbing that epidemic have already been drawn up. “The timing of Robert Whitaker’s , a comprehensive and highly readable history of psychiatry in the United States, couldn’t be better.” “ offers some answers, charting controversial ground with mystery-novel pacing.” “Lucid, pointed and important, should be required reading for anyone considering extended use of psychiatric medicine. Whitaker is at the height of his powers.” —