Nanette J. Davis, Ph.D.

Raging Currents is a gripping memoir of love, mental illness, and caregiving. It tells the story of Dr. Nanette Davis's journey from a childhood of dysfunction to her work as a sociologist and caregiver for her mentally ill sister and son. The book begins with a surprise sink-or-swim lesson at the tender age of nine, which Davis sees as a metaphor for her life's journey. She then goes on to describe her family's struggles with mental illness, from her sister's schizophrenia to her son's bipolar disorder. Davis writes candidly about the challenges of caregiving, including the stigma of mental illness, the lack of resources, and the emotional toll it takes on families. She also shares her insights into the different mental health treatments that have been available over the years, from sedation and isolation to twelve-step programs and modern neuroscience-driven treatments. Raging Currents is more than just a memoir. It is also a practical guide for caregivers and people living with mental illness. Davis offers advice on how to navigate the mental health system, how to cope with the challenges of caregiving, and how to find hope and resilience. Written in clear and compelling prose, and Davis's voice is both honest and compassionate. Raging Currents is an essential read for anyone who has been touched by mental illness.