“Living with Psychosis: Finding Light in the Darkness” is my story—a journey through one of the most difficult and confusing experiences of my life. My name is Hugh Peter Hardin, and I’ve lived through the disorienting, terrifying, and often isolating world of psychosis. This book is not just about what I went through, but about how I found my way out of the darkness and began to heal.
I still remember the day reality started to slip away. It wasn’t sudden, but gradually, I found myself trapped between two worlds—one rooted in reality, and the other a chaotic, distorted version of it. The thoughts, the paranoia, the fear of losing control were overwhelming. But as terrifying as psychosis was, the hardest part was not knowing how to make sense of it all, or if I would ever feel like myself again.
In “Living with Psychosis”, I share my experiences with raw honesty. I open up about what it’s like to live through psychosis, the fear, the confusion, and the struggle to find a way back to reality. But more importantly, I talk about my recovery—how I learned to manage my mental health, rebuild my life, and find light in what felt like an endless darkness.
This book is for anyone who’s going through a similar journey, whether it’s you or someone you love. It’s for those who feel like they’re drowning in their own mind, unsure of where to turn next. Through my story, I hope to offer not only understanding but hope. You’re not alone. There is a way forward, and healing is possible.
Along the way, I share the tools and strategies that helped me, from mindfulness and emotional regulation to the importance of a strong support network. I also offer advice for caregivers—those who want to help but may not know how to support someone living with psychosis.
This journey has taught me that recovery isn’t a straight line, but it’s possible. And through it all, I’ve learned that even in the darkest moments, there is light. “Living with Psychosis: Finding Light in the Darkness” is my way of reaching out to those who feel like there’s no way out, and I hope my story can serve as a reminder that you are stronger than you think and that healing is within reach.
