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Map reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland

writing about mental health

I'm a freelance writer based in Edinburgh, Scotland. In my 20s I was sectioned under the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984, spending time in the Royal Edinburgh Hospital (referred to as a lunatic asylum in the 19th century map above). During recovery I rediscovered my love of creative writing - I'd previously had fiction published and written lyrics for my post-punk band, 4 Minute Warning.

Through the Scottish Book Trust I run writing workshops in schools and community settings - including groups for people with mental health issues, recovering addicts, and homeless individuals. I've also discussed how writing has helped my wellbeing in Barlinnie and Saughton prisons.

I've written a biography: BrainBomb - growing up bipolar.

BrainBomb - Growing up Bipolar is a biography describing how a quiet but bright and sociable lad from Edinburgh, whose band, Little Big Dig, was featured on BBC Radio 1, ended up in a straightjacket in an ambulance heading for a locked ward in a psychiatric hospital. Disturbing but also humorous and life-affirming, BrainBomb is due to be published later this year.

Enjoyed BrainBomb, great stuff, but it moves like a rocket and it's totally mashed my heid!

Irvine Welsh, bestselling author of cult novel Trainspotting.

BrainBomb is a welcome new addition to the growing library of mental health books. Well-written and intensely personal, it takes you right into the bipolar mind.

Alastair Campbell, ambassador for ‘Time To Change,’ a mental health campaign aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination.