Dianne Corbeau’s Six Days in Detox examines the psychological impact of inpatient care for those confronting addiction and mental illness. She methodically chronicles her residency at Southcoast Behavioral Health Hospital, offering valuable insights into the adversities faced by patients. The author seamlessly crafts a narrative infused with poignant flashbacks. 

In this purportedly revolutionary institution, Dianne endures distressing events, including abrupt alterations to her medication and various forms of coercion. She encounters a nurse who was intimidating and abusive. Although she sought assistance from the facility’s psychologist, she is met with indifference. She finds solace in the unwavering support of her advocate, Alexander.  

Battling a complex combination of addiction and manic depression, Dianne experiences physical withdrawal symptoms and verbal attacks from staff and patients. She strives to overcome her past and address her underlying psychological issues.  

Dianne faces mental anguish, learning the vital lesson of acknowledging her flaws and seeking support from her community. The writer grapples with tremors while becoming entangled in a web of intrusive thoughts precluding her from living a fulfilling life. Memories of her upbringing in New York City and relying on drug peddling to survive, flood her mind, making her profoundly wary of others. These intrusions impede her from reaching her full potential. 

Throughout the text, there is a steadfast emphasis on the act of taking a leap of faith, to which Dianne ultimately acquiesces in her quest for restoration. As a young artist, she embraced the canvas and fearlessly ventured into the unknown. As a professor and a muse of wisdom, she must once again take a risk to explore uncharted territories and seize opportunities. 

With fearlessness, Dianne exposes fragile moments uncovering the extent of her afflictions. The intensity of her emotions is palpable, encouraging engagement in the tumultuous emotional odyssey. The challenges of manic-depressive disorder, addiction, and the suffocating confines of residential treatment are thoughtfully examined. She captures the feelings of helplessness and a yearning for freedom many experience when feeling trapped. Amidst the darkness, Dianne exhibits resilience, introspection, and human connection.  

Dianne’s candid storytelling illuminates the intertwining threads of humanity that unite souls amidst daunting trials, as one grapples with one’s psyche. Through her eloquent prose, the phrase “leap and hope to be caught” is used to convey a sense of courage and openness. The narrative’s unwavering strength presents a powerful glimpse into the struggles of someone working to find their authenticity. 

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 

https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/six-days-of-detox-dianne-corbeau#review