We know that mental illness is complex; it is the product of many factors, not just simply a brain suddenly going awry.  In Examined Lives, I tell my mother’s story.  I was, therefore, glad to see an article in the New York Times talking about just that—the fact that for each individual there is not just the issue of a diagnosis (my mother incidentally was never properly diagnosed) but of his or her particular story and that story can be important for treatment.  Drugs are extremely helpful (I take an anti-depressant) but there is so much more that needs to be addressed to ease the pressure on a troubled mind.