Paperback: Dennis O'Donnell started work as an orderly in the Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit of a large hospital in Scotland in 2000.
For seven years, he cared for patients with serious mental health disorders. In his daily life, he encountered fear, violence and despair but also a considerable amount of care and compassion.
Recounting the stories of the patients he worked with, and those of his colleagues on the ward, what emerges is a document of humanity and humour, a remarkable memoir that sheds light on a world that still remains largely unknown and hugely feared.
O'Donnell examines the different major mental disorders specifically their symptoms and manifestations, the various methods of treatment such as medication, therapy and conversation, how religion, sex, wealth, health and drugs can bear influence on mental health, and last but not least, the prevailing attitudes to psychiatric illness among relevant authorities, the professionals and society.
"The Locked Ward (2012) should contribute to a more open discussion of mental illness and suicide." - Irish Times
About the author: Dennis O'Donnell was born in Scotland and attended Edinburgh University where he read English. He was an English teacher for many years before leaving to become a psychiatric orderly. He lives in West Lothian.
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