Nathan Filer: The Language of Madness
Acclaimed novelist and former mental health nurse re-imagines care, calling for a radical rethink of mental health labels and anti-stigma campaigns.
“There is no uncontroversial language when talking about mental illness – and that includes the phrase ‘mental illness’” says Nathan Filer in his new book, The Heartland, praised as an “entertaining and absorbing” narrative and historical exploration of schizophrenia. (The Guardian).
With a background in mental health nursing, Filer is interested in people and care systems – and what happens when someone receives a diagnosis of a so-called disorder. His experience as both a care professional and researcher has led him to the conclusion that it is time to rethink mental health labels and anti-stigma campaigns completely.
The Heartland is the non-fiction follow-up to Filer’s debut novel, The Shock of the Fall, a story of a young man negotiating grief and mental illness, which won multiple awards including the Costa Book of the Year, 2013. With The Heartland, Filer has produced an “effortlessly-readable” study of the seemingly-transient nature of the symptoms, language and treatment of schizophrenia over time, unpacking a complex and fascinating subject.
Hear him share his findings in a talk presented by The Big Anxiety Festival. Following the talk, Nathan will discuss and challenge current orthodoxies around causes, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness with a panel including Dr Emma Tseris, lecturer in social work and critical mental health theory at the University of Sydney.
This event is presented by The Big Anxiety.
Tickets
Standard – $15 + booking fee
Concession – $10 + booking fee
