Scientists at Edinburgh University have discovered a gene which they believe will help to explain the causes of mental illness. It is hoped that this breakthrough will aid the development of newer and more effective treatments. The identification of the gene could lead to drugs that restore mental health in patients suffering from psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression.

Infinite Ideas, the British publisher of Songs of three islands has given free hardback copies of the book to selected reading groups across the United Kingdom.

Katherine Hieronymus, Publishing Director of Infinite Ideas explains: “With the huge number of books being released each month, publishers are having to think of more ingenious ways of getting important books in front of potential readers. And we certainly think this is an important book. It deals with a subject matter that touches millions and is written eloquently and with a warmth which means those lucky enough to pick up a copy simply can’t put it down.”

Millicent’s interview with Paula Gordon suggests a perhaps softer approach to leading a good life.

We’re really excited to hear that book blogger, Dovegreyreader, has selected Songs of Three Islands for her night time reading.   She’s a brilliant book blogger and we look forward to hearing what she thinks!

Just released –  a report called Overview of mental health services  released by Scotland’s Audit General office,  claims 850,000 people experience mental health problems at any one time in Scotland.

Deputy Auditor General for Scotland Caroline Gardner said: “Mental health problems are significant issues for Scotland; about 850,000 people, or one in six of the country’s population, are experiencing these problems at any given time. Therefore it is important that comprehensive services are provided across Scotland that are easy to access and meet people’s needs.

To celebrate the launch of this beautifully written book, the publisher is giving away copies to the first 20 people to email them. There are no other catches*….really! Simply e-mail info@infideas.com with your name, full address (with post code) and ‘free songs’ in the subject line, and be one of the first to ask for a copy and it is yours!

*Naturally, the publishers wouldn’t mind if you told all your friends about how wonderful the book is. Oh and the offer is only open to UK residents, it’s first come first serve and delivery will take between twelve and fourteen working days.

So heartwarming to see a review like this from The Scotsman who calls the book, “…multi-layered, even poetic in places.   At its heart, it is a plea for greater openness about mental illness and its devastating consequences for the families…a peephole into a lost world of wealth and splendour.”

In a lengthy interview this month in The Guardian, journalist Tom Shone chats with the author and explores the truth beneath the surface of three generations of Carnegie women, calling  Songs of Three Islands, …a multi-layered weave of family memoir, myth and Jungian premonition that reads at times like a gothic novel.

Welcome everyone.  We are so pleased to see you here and to announce the official publication of Songs of Three Islands in the UK this month!!  We have started this blog to spread the word about the book and to share information on the latest research, news and developments on borderline personality disorder (BPD) and mental health issues worldwide.   We hope in doing so that you will feel comfortable  in this community where families and individuals who live with  BPD and related illnesses can share their experiences and their recommendations in a positive, healing and inspiring manner.