Back from the Brink of Insanity is the true story of Dr. Rita Goh and her triumph over mental illness. It traces the author’s early childhood days, her family upbringing, her passion for singing inspired by Taiwanese singer, Teresa Teng, right up to her struggles with schizophrenia and depression.
A moving story of love, perseverence and faith, the book reveals how vital these vitues are in combating mental illness. Rita’s testimony will undoubtedly inspire people struggling in life to find that “rainbow after the storm”.
Praises for the Book “Back from The Brink of Insanity”
Personally, I had gone through sixteen years of multiple relapses in chronic, paranoid schizophrenia. I understand clearly how difficult it is for us to talk about our experiences, let alone write a book about them. Rita Goh, in coming out to write about her expriences with schizophrenia, demonstrates not only courage and determination, she signifies the emerging trend evident of a fast changing mindset in our Singapore society, one which generates greater respect and understanding for those who have mental illness, providing them with possible opportunities to integrate back into society.”
~ Harris Ng, Author of the book, RECOVERED GRACE: SCHIZOPHRENIA
This is an extraordinary account of the author’s struggle and triumph over a mental disorder. More importantly, may it bring more empathy and understanding for those who are still suffering from similar afflictions. ”
~ Francis Goo, Assistant Director, Simei Care Centre
There are many myths about schizophrenia: that there is no cure, that it is a disease that one is born with, that these people are violent and to be avoided, that they are unproductive.
“Rita’s experience shattered all these myths. It happened to an educated and logical person with a PhD. Through Rita’s formula of regular medication, loving support and faith in God, she has fully recovered. Now she is doing exceedingly far greater things than she has ever done before. Something good has turned out of something bad. Her story will warm your heart.
“The book is a message of hope for caregivers and sufferers. We owe it to ourselves to learn the truth about schizophrenia and remove its stigma from our minds.”
~ Sam Choo, Founder of The Singapore Writers Guild
After reading your book, here’s what I think :inspiring, noble, courageous, painful, thought provoking. I am so happy for you, I am sure many feel the same way and I am sure you have touched many lives already through the journey that you are travelling.”
~ Pam J Tan-Smith, Business Development Executive
Dr. Rita Goh’s book is a moving account of her personal triumph over a baffling mental disorder. Her fortitude in overcoming the odds against her is indeed admirable. Her courage in continuing to live a full life before, during and after the illness, is inspiring. She did not bow down to fate, she crafted her own destiny. Thank you Dr. Rita Goh for enriching my life with your story.”
~ Meryl MacShane, Homemaker
Reading Back from the Brink of Insanity allowed me to reflect and really understand the impact that we as mental health professionals have on people who have incurred catastrophic events. This book allowed me to appreciate the power of the human spirit; it is a lesson I will draw upon my entire life. Hope you continue to inspire each and everyone of us.
~ Helen Lee, Case Manager, Early Psychosis Intervention Programme ( EPIP )
Back from the Brink of Insanity is a gripping testimony to the intense determination and dedication, which enabled her to survive and ultimately triumph over almost unbelievable circumstances. Her book is a very powerful and moving example of the grace of God, and the power of the human spirit. I found myself swept into a maelstrom of emotion as Rita details her experience, from indescribable terror and pain, to the elation and satisfaction of each small step in recovery. I would recommend it to anyone facing difficult circumstances. Back from the Brink of Insanity takes the reader for an emotional ride, but leaves you convinced that with hard work, strength of will and the power of God, anything is possible.”
~ Kathryn Tan, Homemaker
Back from the Brink of Insanity is an inspiring true-life account. Mental health professionals and anyone seeking to understand what a patient with a severe mental illness actually goes through will find the book highly informative. The book effectively counters the conventional wisdom that after a severe depression, a person’s life is over. Rita demonstrates that determination and strength of will are the most important elements of a recovery programme.”
~ Pauline Tan, Manager, Corporate Communications, Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
If you ever wondered if ‘miracles’ are real, all you need to do is to listento the amazing and very real story of what Rita has come through. Rita’s story will renew your faith and fill you with the same joythat helped her overcome life’s headaches and heartaches.”
~ Colin Koh, Immediate Past President (2001~2005), Singapore Industrial Automation Association (SIAA)
As I read your book, I marveled at your courage and persistence. You are truly an inspiration for anyone who faces seemingly insurmountable odds. I really think the Lord had a hand in your recovery. The extent of your improvement goes way beyond what a person could accomplish through sheer tenacity. It is truly miraculous ! ”
~ Joyce Tay, Freelance Teacher
One of the best ways to de-stigmatize mental illness is to talk about it openly. Dr. Rita Goh, through her novel, Back from the Brink of Insanity, has been brave enough to come forward and do just that. In so doing, she is going to change mindsets and get more people suffering from schizophrenia, depression and other forms of psychotic illness to relate their own stories. I was moved to tears when I read her book and would highly recommend it to anyone so that they have a better understanding of mental illness. ”
~ Doris Lau Siew Lang, Housewife and aspiring writer
