Psyche

Psyche, is Aidan Shingler’s mind-blowing account of the visionary potential of unusual states of consciousness. With striking imagery and compelling narrative, the author explores the spiritual and creative aspects of schizophrenia, the way people so labelled are treated by the psychiatric system, and how the senses of those experiencing psychosis are opened to paranormal stimuli. The book validates schizophrenia or ‘Psyche-sensitivity’ as evidence of humankind evolving before us, here and now, and emphasises its positive and transforming potential.

‘A shaft of light into the darkness’- Arts Journal
‘Inexplicably beautiful’- The Guardian
‘Sharp, witty and in places very funny’- Northern Review
'Beyond categorisation' - Artesian Magazine
‘Sheer brilliance’- Mail-Out

Reviews:

"This work and the manner of its presentation afford an alternative world view. The reader/viewer is taken on a remarkable guided tour of the artist’s/authors world and philosophy. The combination of text and images is beautifully structured and paced. Through joy, laughter and sadness it validates the human spirit and encourages us all to strive to become ‘Reality Testers’."
Prof. Philip Barker - Honorary Professor in the School of Medicine, University of Dundee

"By accentuating the positive aspects of the state of being dismissed as schizophrenia, Aidan Shingler restores dignity and wonder to worlds we disregard at our peril. He leaves us in no doubt that others who have received similar diagnoses, but may not possess similar degrees of articulateness, may well be misunderstood - sometimes fatally - by the caring professions. Whilst this book will be a delight for anyone, it should be on the introductory book list of every person embarking on a career in the mental health field."
Dr. Langley Brown - Research Fellow - Manchester Metropolitan University

"As a survivor of the mental health system and a professional now working in mental health I can think of no better book to give an introduction to the often transformative and positive experiences of those labelled as mentally ill. Aidan Shingler so eloquently relates this in poetic words and stunning images that reveal this beauty alongside the depiction of the destructive reality of a cruel and abusive psychiatric system. If your life is in any way touched by mental health, you appreciate witty intelligent art or want to read something totally original then I strongly recommend this amazing book."
Catherine Ingram - Chief Executive - Derbyshire Voice