Bookpleasures Interviews Joan Jackson About Just In Time

Joan Jackson's Just In Time shines a personal perspective on mental illness. Here's an excerpt from the interview:Norm: Is Just In Time based on people you know, or events in your own life?Joan: Yes. My family.Norm: What was the most difficult part of writing your book, did you learn anything from writing your book and what was one of the most surprising things you learned in writing the book?Joan: Without planning to, I was surprised at the realization that my son’s drug addiction overlapped with my brother’s mental illness--they’re both lifelong diseases. Abstinence for the addict, meds for the schizophrenic are the only answers for them to lead a “normal”, life. I also more fully recognized the despair my mother felt, now that I’d felt the same hopelessness.Norm: In general, do you believe that the public is more aware today concerning mental illness and in particular schizophrenia? If not, what can be done to make them more aware? As a follow up, what are some ways in which you will be promoting Just In Time?Joan: Much more aware today, however the stigma still persists; bipolar is now the most commonly used and heard diagnosis. It’s more acceptable, feels less harmful. While it’s not the same as schizophrenia, which scares people, many of the symptoms are similar: extreme mood swings, hallucinations, etc. Untreated paranoid schizophrenia can lead to violent behavior, homelessness, rage, and constant talking. When treated, they can function well and live alone. Journalists can help in their reporting with the words they choose. The police can restrain w/o excessive force by learning more about the signs of mental illness. I’m promoting my book mainly on social media and bookstore signings. Hopefully a benefit w/NAMI at a book fair in Palm Springs. And more interviews like this! For the full interview, click here.