Living 'Out' of the Book- A Diagnosis of Learning Difficulties Through Periods of Mental Illness

Overcoming the label of learning disability may be an achievement but also triumphing over the obstacles caused by prejudice at being labeled with schizophrenia is highly unusual. Philip Hill uses his auto-biographical account to describe the ways in which he overcame the rejection of his peer group at school\neighbourhood and how he used his experiences of mental illness to help others like himself before going on to train as a social worker.

This amazing account of triumph over adversity should be an inspiration to other people who find themselves labeled with severe mental illness. The honest and thought provoking way Philip describes his symptoms should enable the layperson to gain an 'insiders' insight on what it like to suffer from the active symptoms of Schizophrenia. This book will hopefully challenge the stereotypes surrounding Schizophrenia.

Philip Hill has spent most of his life living in various parts of Birmingham. Philip is a twin and his twin brother Paul is a neighbour. Furthermore Philip has an elder sister and an elder brother he has not seen recently.

Being brought up with his twin brother and adopted sister Lynn by foster parents gave him much needed stability after living in a children's home.

Experiencing neglect in a children's home at the early stages of development led to him being sent to a special school at the age of five. He learned to read by the age of ten and eventually went on to Leicester University to study Economics.

At Leicester University Philip struggled with mixing with his peer group and despite reasonable academic progress had a nervous breakdown after passing his finals. His diagnosis of Schizophrenia would be a label he will now have to endure for the rest of his life.

After having a relapse Philip eventually found long term work. Then at the age of 32 Philip went to Birmingham University where he gained a masters degree in Economic Development and Policy. He then went on to study for a doctorate but ended up with the consolation prize of a Masters of Philosophy research degree. Finally drawing on his skills as a support worker working with those diagnosed with mental health issues, he applied to go on a social work course. Philip is now a professional social worker working with adults with learning disabilities.

He is also happily married to Geraldine.