You Need Help!

Starred review from December 1, 2012

Many people are keenly aware of a loved one's mental or physical illness, and their need for but refusal to get outside help. Komrad (psychiatry, Univ. of Maryland) helps readers deal with the seemingly insurmountable task of helping a friend who needs help. Komrad addresses every step of the process, including discerning when it's time for a professional evaluation, deciding when the timing is good to deliver the "opening pitch," and using therapeutic coercion if all else fails. He uses case studies in a variety of situations--alcoholism, suicide, domestic abuse--and offers assessment tools and options as to how to proceed. Absolutely top notch and necessary for all caring friends and family.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.