A new memoir, "Unshrunk" by Laura Delano, is making waves and causing controversy, particularly for its critical stance on conventional psychiatric treatments. The book has not only garnered attention but has also drawn a rebuke from the New York Times, sparking a debate that's capturing the interest of freethinkers.
Bruce E. Levine, writing in CounterPunch, has offered a strong defense of Delano's work, critiquing the NYT's coverage. Levine argues that the Times' review attempts to marginalize Delano's insights and her questioning of established psychiatric practices. The original article in CounterPunch can be found here: [https://www.counterpunch.org/2025/03/28/unshrunk-a-memoir-that-upsets-the-nyt-and-which-freethinkers-will-love/].
"Unshrunk" challenges the established narratives surrounding mental health and treatment, particularly regarding the role of medication and the experiences of those who resist conventional psychiatric approaches. The book's publication by Viking, a Penguin Random House imprint, has further amplified its reach, making it harder for mainstream media outlets to ignore.
The NYT's coverage, as highlighted by Levine, has been accused of subtly undermining Delano's work. This has led to a wider discussion about the media's role in shaping perceptions of mental health and the potential for alternative perspectives to be marginalized.
The book has become a focal point for those who question the status quo in mental health, with online discussions and reviews praising its insights. This development underscores a growing desire for different narratives in the field of mental health.