Title: Mary Lives – A Story of Anorexia Nervosa & Bipolar Disorder
Author: Mary Brooks
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 9781493135608
Pages: 396
Genre: Health & Fitness / Diseases
Reviewed by: Krista Schnee
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Bright and imaginative, young Mary enjoyed quiet diversions and spent many happy hours in one of her favorite places, the school library. Entrusted with even difficult tasks, she readily helped the librarian; this work was similar in many ways to the jobs she performed for her father in the family’s toyshop. Mary was hard working and resourceful, playing an important part in her family even at a young age. Mature and capable in real life as well as in school, she was determined to become a doctor, a goal fostered in her by her father. Indeed, she was altogether an obedient and respectful daughter until her teenage years, the time when her problems became all too evident.
It was then Mary began to exhibit symptoms of anorexia and bipolar disorder. She exerted her own independence from her parents even as she struggled with periods of depression and mania, as well as the tyrannical nature of the eating disorder. Her increasingly erratic behavior led to long hospitalizations and various medications, with the hospital staff taking on more of a parental role as her parents grew distant. Even in the midst of such turmoil and change, Mary was still able to attend the university and excelled, eventually becoming a doctor. Years of restrictive eating and heavy medication would take their toll, but she continued her attempts to regain her health. Hardships and mistakes might temporarily discourage her, however, Mary fought for that positive, joyful life which she had always desired.
In Mary Lives – A Story of Anorexia Nervosa & Bipolar Disorder, Mary Brooks writes her own story, one of extraordinary accomplishments but also deeply rooted struggles. Growing up in the years before anorexia and bipolar disorder were recognized and properly treated by medical professionals, Mary faced challenges that were harrowing, leaving lifelong effects. Still, her story is ultimately one of hope and victory. Mary’s book provides insight into the private battles of someone living with mental illness; through a combination of both poetry and narrative prose, she shows readers the fractured thought processes and rituals that dominated her life. Although Mary fully exposes this brokenness so that others might comprehend the true nature of living with mental illness, she also gives hope that will help and healing is possible.
Among the memoirs of mental illness available, Mary Brooks’ Mary Lives – A Story of Anorexia Nervosa & Bipolar Disorder is an unusual contribution. The writing style is clear and often poetic. The author is not only a patient but also a medical practitioner. Additionally, Mary’s book gives readers a fuller comprehension of the treatment of mental illness and its progression over the years. Indeed, Mary’s story is one that would benefit so many readers, whether sympathetic friends and family or those currently living with mental illness. Mary Lives – A Story of Anorexia Nervosa & Bipolar Disorder would be a valuable addition to any library and will surely lead readers to a place of greater compassion and understanding for those living with mental illness.
