In a compelling episode of Chicago Writes, a program hosted by the Chicago Writers Association, W.C. Turck sat down with Jason Page, the author of the Mental Hospital Survival Guide: How to Protect Yourself and Others from Abuse, now in its fourth edition. Page, a diagnosed paranoid schizophrenic, has transformed his personal experiences into a vital resource for those navigating the often daunting landscape of mental health hospitalization. This interview delves into the nuances of his guide, the systemic challenges within mental health institutions, and the critical importance of self-advocacy and empathy in mental health care.
A Guide Written in the Language of the Schizophrenic
Page’s Mental Hospital Survival Guide is not a typical self-help book. As Turck notes, it is written in the “language of the schizophrenic,” a unique framework complete with its own vocabulary, structure, and cultural context. For those unfamiliar with this perspective, the guide may seem opaque, but for individuals experiencing psychosis or their loved ones, it is a lifeline. Page emphasizes that the book is designed for patients, not hospital staff, to help them navigate the confusion, chaos, and potential hostility of mental health facilities.
The guide addresses the realities of hospitalization, whether voluntary or involuntary, and provides practical strategies for patients to manage their behavior and attitudes to de-escalate crises and expedite their release. Page’s approach is grounded in his own experiences, having endured over 20 hospitalizations. He candidly shares that in approximately half of these instances, he witnessed abuse, underscoring the need for a resource that empowers patients to protect themselves.
The Challenges of Mental Health Institutions
One of the central themes of the interview is the systemic issues within mental health institutions. Page highlights the chronic understaffing and underfunding that plague many facilities, which often lead to inadequate oversight and unchecked authority among staff. He points out that some staff members, particularly those with ex-military backgrounds, may bring complexities such as PTSD, which can amplify their responses in high-stress environments. This, combined with a desensitization bred by military training or societal trends, can create a “sensitivity gap” where empathy is lacking.
Page recounts witnessing abuse perpetrated by staff with military backgrounds, noting that their training in physical restraint techniques makes them desirable hires for mental hospitals. However, this same training can contribute to a culture of disregard for the humanity of patients, particularly when PTSD triggers lead to disproportionate reactions. He also warns of other problematic staff, such as those who prey on vulnerable patients, further exacerbating the risks within these institutions.
Turck and Page discuss how the lack of live monitoring, despite the presence of video cameras, and the absence of cameras in patients’ rooms for privacy reasons, can allow abuse to go undetected. This lack of oversight, coupled with the pressure to prioritize the bottom line, creates an environment where patient safety is often compromised.
Empowering Patients Through Self-Advocacy
A key focus of Page’s guide is empowering patients to take control of their own agency. He stresses the importance of self-advocacy, which begins with recognizing that a problem exists. For individuals in psychosis, personal insight into their condition is rare, making validation from others a critical step in their recovery. Page advocates for a balanced approach where patients are encouraged to consider that their perceptions may not be entirely accurate while still acknowledging the validity of their experiences.
One of the most practical pieces of advice in the guide is the importance of seemingly small behaviors, such as making one’s bed daily. Page explains that this simple act signals to staff that a patient is organized and prioritizing their well-being, which can positively influence assessments and expedite discharge. Beyond its strategic value, this behavior has therapeutic benefits, fostering a sense of self-care and personal agency that patients may not initially recognize.
Page also emphasizes the importance of keeping a log of incidents during hospitalization. By documenting the date, time, and details of any abuse or concerning events without interpretation, patients can build a case for legal action if necessary. Additionally, having a list of critical contacts—such as loved ones, doctors, or specialists—on paper is essential, as access to phones and computers is often restricted in hospitals.
The Reality of Psychosis and Hospitalization
Page’s personal experiences with psychosis provide a poignant backdrop to the interview. He describes hallucinating alternate realities where people were following him and helicopters were outside his window—experiences that felt entirely real within the context of his psychosis. He underscores the importance of validation in these moments, suggesting that acknowledging a patient’s reality while gently introducing alternative perspectives can empower them to self-advocate.
The guide also addresses the distinction between voluntary and involuntary hospitalization. Page notes that once the hospital door closes, the burden of crisis management often falls on the patient, regardless of how they were admitted. For those in crisis, whether due to overwhelming stress, suicidal ideation, or encounters with the justice system, the guide offers a roadmap for navigating the hospital environment and emerging stabilized.
Turck highlights a powerful quote from the book: “If you feel targeted, whether by a conspiracy or poised to expose perceived gang stalking, gaslighting, or other forces you believe imperil you to others, hospitalization can be a lifeline.” Page advises patients to call 911 if they feel in immediate danger, using specific phrasing—“I believe what I’m experiencing puts me in immediate danger to myself”—to align with crisis response protocols. This approach ensures that patients receive urgent help, regardless of whether their threats are objectively real or tied to psychosis.
Systemic and Societal Implications
The interview also touches on broader societal and political issues affecting mental health care. Page expresses concern about the potential for reduced funding and oversight under certain political climates, which could exacerbate existing challenges. He warns of the risk of capable individuals being indefinitely institutionalized if personal consent is not prioritized, a practice he sees as antithetical to American values.
Page also discusses the shrinking landscape of mental health institutions, noting that facilities like Reed Hospital, once a large complex, have been reduced to serving only the criminally insane. This leaves few options for individuals in crisis who do not fit this extreme category, particularly those who may exhibit violent behavior. He shares the tragic story of a friend who, unable to find appropriate care, jumped in front of a train, highlighting the dire consequences of systemic shortcomings.
As a potential solution, Page advocates for more drop-in centers where individuals can access support without the incarceratory aspects of traditional hospitalization. He describes one such center near his home, funded by Cook County Health, which offers meetings, meals, and a safe space for personal development. These centers address universal needs, such as Maslow’s hierarchy, and foster insight through community engagement.
Challenges in Writing the Guide
Writing the Mental Hospital Survival Guide was not without its hurdles. Page reveals that a fellow mental health author declined to review the book, citing concerns about its potential negative impact on the mental health system. While she argued for the need for more mental hospitals, Page believes that addressing root causes—such as societal empathy and oversight—is equally critical. Despite this criticism, he remains committed to his mission of empowering patients and advocating for systemic change.
The fourth edition includes a new chapter on medically induced psychosis, inspired by a friend who developed delusional symptoms after starting a specific medication. This addition underscores the guide’s relevance, as it addresses emerging issues that can affect anyone, regardless of prior mental health history.
A Call for Greater Dialogue and Empathy
Throughout the interview, Page and Turck emphasize the need for greater societal dialogue and empathy around mental health. Turck notes that 60-70% of people will face a mental health crisis at some point, whether it’s depression, schizophrenia, or another condition. Page agrees, adding that those who claim otherwise may simply be adept at concealing their struggles. This universal vulnerability underscores the importance of resources like the Mental Hospital Survival Guide, which offers real-world, non-intuitive advice for navigating crises.
Page’s guide is a testament to his resilience and commitment to helping others. As Turck remarks, Page has managed his mental health perspective in an “extraordinary” way, serving as an example to others. The book, available electronically for free at dlc.pagetelegram.com and soon to be released in its final form, is a critical resource for anyone facing a mental health crisis or supporting a loved one through hospitalization.
Conclusion
Jason Page’s interview on Chicago Writes with W.C. Turck is a powerful exploration of the challenges and realities of mental health hospitalization. Through his Mental Hospital Survival Guide, Page offers a beacon of hope and practical guidance for patients navigating a complex and often hostile system. His insights into self-advocacy, systemic issues, and the need for societal empathy resonate deeply, making this guide an essential tool for anyone touched by mental health challenges. As Page continues to advocate for change and share his experiences, his work stands as a vital contribution to the ongoing conversation about mental health care in America.
