From walking the cold streets of an Eastern city to receiving manipulative mental health treatment in an up-to-date hospital; these characters face the stigma of the mentally ill. Respectively, their entire lives are affected by the callous attitude of others and exploitation from the medical profession. These mental health consumers can only then turn to a newly accepting family and their own spiritual path. Always with honesty -- sometimes with humor -- each chapter tells of a new aspect regarding mental health care. The author's observations and perceptions are presented in an understanding manner to both professional and lay persons at the end of the book. Please know that the author feels that solutions are possible. Robert N. Franz is a "Community Mental Health Activist". Not only does he reject 'biased bullying' of the mentally ill, but he sees that mental health consumers need to stand strong and stop surrendering to a stubborn public which misunderstands the mental health of many. We can only stop discrimination through more discussion about mental health issues. Stigma will stop when the need for patience & tolerance is understood and then worked towards. Specifically in Mr. Franz's writing, situations are discussed where we all can begin to learn more about each other. Robert offers starting points in "The Stigma of the Mentally Ill: Bob Does Everything Backwards". Robert Franz moved to Delaware after studying chemistry at Occidental College in Los Angeles, California. He then enrolled in three schools of higher education to study human & social science. He has worked in addictions, gerontology, mental health, and as a swim instructor for children and youth. Now he writes to motivate. Robert is not afraid to admit that he has been mentally diagnosed and detained. Through these experiences resolve and understanding surfaced in him. He has traveled to nine foreign countries and forty-seven states and was raised in Walnut Creek, California by kind parents with his sister, Annette. Now, lovingly, he resides with his wife, Leslie, in North Wilmington with their pet tabby "Misty". For now, life is good. For all of us too, the future can be bright. We only have to use tolerance and good, decent communication. Thank you for your acceptance and patience -- for with these qualities we learn well.