Dr Ben Cave is the pen name of a practising general and forensic psychiatrist, also a specialist in substance misuse, medico-legal expert and a member of the judiciary. Over a career spanning almost 35 years, he has worked as a prison psychiatrist, community psychiatrist and as a consultant in medium-, low-secure and general mental health units. He has dealt with the whole range of psychiatric conditions, from personality disorders and schizophrenia to addictions, and continues to make challenging judgment calls on when patients are no longer a risk to themselves or others and can be released back into the community. This is Dr Ben's first book.
'a sensitive and immersive voyage through the career of a forensic psychiatrist... This book is a beautifully written invitation to the reader to glimpse into Cave's often painful, but ultimately uplifting journey.' - Kerry Daynes, The Sunday Times Bestselling author of The Dark Side of the Mind & What Lies Buried 'delightfully entertaining, witty, surprising, horrifying, and harrowing - all part of life in forensic mental health services' - Professor Kamaldeep Bhui 'The expert knowledge contained in this book will help us all gain a crucial understanding of the complex issue of mental health.' - Jonathan Agnew 'the most mesmerising, haunting and seductive book I have read in years... I have no doubt it will take it's place atop the new wave of literary, medical professionals.' - Amol Rajan 'Dr Cave skilfully weaves the lives of some of the most disturbed and violent patients with his own personal conflicts to create a powerful tapestry, sharing both tender moments and shocking scenes. He reveals with candour and humour the poignant reality of challenging mental disorders working in an often-hidden world - a compelling insight into the tragic and at times frightening truth about what happens behind locked doors.' - Marjorie Wallace CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of SANE