Halyn Has Schizophrenia and That’s OK by Matthew Johnstone

Halyn has Schizophrenia and that’s OK tells Halyn’s story of understanding and acceptance of her schizophrenia diagnosis.

Schizophrenia is complex disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves, with symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. It affects 1 in 300 people, and more than 24 million globally. It is a serious condition but can be managed effectively with early intervention, ongoing treatment and compassionate support.

This book is for anyone seeking to understand their diagnosis, or for friends and family hoping to support their loved one with schizophrenia. Through humorous and moving illustrations, it shows that it is possible to live a happy and fulfilling life with this condition, and promotes clarity, honesty and caring for those living with mental illness.

A colour, fully illustrated introduction to what it means to have schizophrenia, co-written and illustrated by bestselling author Matthew Johnstone alongside lived experience advocate and influencer Lauren Kennedy West.

About the Author: Matthew Johnstone has written and illustrated several bestselling mental health and wellbeing titles such as I Had a Black Dog. Matthew’s company Drawn from Experience develops creative/educational programmes, illustrations and videos on understanding mental health and resilience for schools, communities, eHealth and the workplace.

Lauren Kennedy West lives with a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, and brings a unique perspective to mental health advocacy. With experience both as a social worker within the mental health care system and as a patient navigating its challenges, Lauren reaches millions through her YouTube channel, Living Well After Schizophrenia.

07 May 2026
 

Halyn Has Schizophrenia and That’s OK: An Illustrated Journey Through Understanding, Acceptance, Empathy and Living Well by Matthew Johnstone ISBN 9781408783986