Review of Consenting to Infection

[Rashad Deniro Price]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Consenting to Infection" by J. Peters.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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In Consenting to Infection: Hep C and the Pandemic, J. Peters writes about his diagnosis with schizophrenia, the consequent shifts in his life, the long journey seeking treatment and recovery, his relationship with Felecia and his advocacy for mental health patients, among others.

One of the merits of this book is its unconventional take on the issues of mental health, treatment and recovery. It cuts through the veils of conformity to reveal the real struggles of the sufferers of longstanding and chronic illnesses. It notes the weight of systemic failures, personal biases, the mistaking of patient complaints for symptomatology and the fallouts in the back-and-forth phases of treatment and recovery.

The importance of sharing our lived experiences cannot be overemphasized. I am grateful to the author for leading us through some critical incidents in his life. Reading about his frustrations following his diagnosis with schizophrenia, his pain over his brother Russ's indifference and his difficulty navigating everyday tasks and reconnecting with his college friends from New London, as well as the challenges faced by other people like Felecia and Silvia, underscores the unpredictable nature of life and our individual and collective struggles.

It was refreshing getting to know about J. Peters' resilience. His unbreakable spirit, despite all he has been through, and his refusal to be forced to feel ashamed of his work are inspiring. This book is not only about J. Peters. It is also the untold story of millions of mental health patients scattered in different parts of the world. It is a story of trials and triumphs. It is a call for proper funding of the mental health system. It is an unmistakable statement that mental health patients are also humans and deserve every care and respect with treatment and symptom management. It is a call for proper consultations and considerations before initiating policies affecting mental health patients.

Consenting to Infection: Hep C and the Pandemic will appeal to sufferers of mental illness, lovers of autobiography and anyone interested in the topic of mental health administration and management. This book was exceptionally well edited, and I did not dislike anything in it. J. Peters' rise to prominence and recognition underscores the fact that challenges do not define us, and his story does not only inform readers about his personal struggles and triumphs but also goes beyond to bring to our attention the daily struggles of millions of mental health patients out there. For these reasons, I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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Consenting to Infection
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Mark Lazarus]

It sounds like a deeply personal and powerful read that sheds light on the often overlooked struggles of mental health patients. I appreciate stories that push for systemic change while also celebrating resilience and perseverance. Knowing it’s well-edited and thoughtfully written makes it even more appealing. I’d definitely consider giving it a read.