Publications...
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The author of A Manual for Mental Wellness, Jeffrey Conrad, offers a practical and fundamental recovery philosophy for patients suffering with mental health problems. This manual can be read by family members and friends, who are part of a support team of professionals and lay people.
The manual consists of twelve short chapters with brief stories to explain better a chapter’s theme. It is written in a way that allows readers to pick it up and read any section independently of others; yet, the parts add up to an understandable and encouraging look that helps one to achieve mental wellness.
The manual has had several printings. It was initially published in 1993, by the mental health wing of the Penobscot Bay Medical Center.
We at StayWell believe the author, a patient himself, offers a unique perspective with sensitivity to the subject matter not easily found elsewhere. He is familiar with psychotherapy and rehabilitation procedures. He has used those experiences to write a booklet that compliments existing medical models. It can be used with mainstream western style medicine that includes medication and therapy (private and group), as well as encouraging self-help tools that are practical and spiritual-like gentle exercises, hobbies, and the observance of religious healing traditions.
The booklet is printed on a soft-colored, durable, quality paper. It is laid out handsomely in a comfortable 5" X 8" size.
A graduate of Bowdoin College with a B.A. degree, Jeffrey has had 15 years bookstore experience. He enjoys gardening, singing, writing, and reading while living in Mid-coast Maine.
Additional Praise for A Manual for Mental Wellness...
Free Press Review of A Manual for Mental Wellness...
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Gentle Exercises is an exercise program for those concerned about their physical health. Evidence points that to remain well overall, some form of appropriate exercise is needed on a regular basis. Those with mental health concerns often do not exercise. Also, when taking medication, side effects occur such as constipation and weight gain. This version of exercises will help correct these side effects. Jeff uses this routine himself on a regular basis.
The exercises are relatively simple. One remains grounded throughout the whole routine. The movements are intended to help the participant get more in tune with his or her mind, body and spirit. Breathing and gentle stretches are the key elements of this program. They allow for a gentle massage of internal organs and the presentation is clear and calming.
The narrator has studied and practiced Hatha Yoga, Tai Chi (Yang short form), swimming and walking for many years. With this background he offers his version of gentle exercises and simple guided meditation to allow for a refreshed state of being. He has taught/facilitated several classes using this program.
The program is 60 minutes long and is presented on an audio CD format. For those who have not been exercising regularly, they should build up their strength and endurance in order to complete the full routine. One may begin by doing only the first few movements and then build upon this foundation. Hopefully, the routine in its entirety will allow for a pleasant, peaceful, relaxing and refreshed state of being.
Warning: If you have had a back injury or serious prolonged health problems with your back, this exercise routine may not be suitable for you. Please consult your physical therapist or doctor before attempting any of the exercises.
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Reflections on Mental Illness covers information on mental illness from both the professional's side as well as from the patient's. The material reflects the lessons learned by Jeffrey that helped to give him hope and a more constructive, objective approach to sensible self help.
With this writing the aim is to have the patient and his/her support team to read the insights together. Hopefully, a dialogue will come out of this shared effort; thus allowing guidance to set realistic goals and appropriate boundaries for the parties concerned. The booklet offers understanding, compassion and spiritual insights.
A qualified editor from Yale University did the editing for this booklet. This is something worth spending quality time within the patient's/consumer's support team's efforts.
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Living and Dreaming: Some Guiding Points is a very practical pamphlet on looking at one's dream life. Information is organized so as to offer a working pragmatic (practical) approach to coping with one's difficult nights.
Nothing is talked of that the writer has not had considerable time to reflect upon.
The pamphlet offers hope and help in an easily understandable language.
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Grace is a useful guide in talking to a novice or even an expert about how spiritual insights help ease the burden of a mental illness. The essay speaks clearly about social graces as well as hints at the high hopes of divine grace in everyone's life.
Easy to understand in that it is quite readable.
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